Shirley Raines, the beloved activist known to millions as “Ms. Shirley,” died from hypertensive heart disease, her family confirmed to TMZ. She was 58.
Raines' daughter, Danielle Williams, told the outlet that her mom had a history of high blood pressure and was receiving treatment at the time of her death. An autopsy conducted by the Clark County Coroner’s Office determined the cause as hypertensive heart disease, a condition linked to long-term high blood pressure.
Raines was found unresponsive inside her Henderson, Nevada home in late January after loved ones requested a welfare check when they were unable to reach her. Authorities later confirmed there were no signs of trauma. Her sudden passing left her family — and the community she served — in shock.
But long before headlines, Raines had already built a legacy.
As the founder of Beauty 2 The Streetz, Raines became a powerful presence on Skid Row in Los Angeles, where she provided meals, hygiene products, clothing, and something many people overlook: care that restores dignity. She was known for offering hairstyling and makeup services to unhoused women and men — not for vanity, but for humanity.
She often reminded her supporters that homelessness does not strip people of their worth. Through social media, she brought visibility to stories that are too often ignored, challenging viewers to see the full person in front of them — not just their circumstances.
What started as grassroots outreach grew into a nationally recognized nonprofit with volunteers and supporters across the country. In 2021, Raines was named CNN’s Hero of the Year for her work. She later received an NAACP Image Award, further cementing the impact of a mission that blended compassion with action.
Following news of her passing, the Beauty 2 The Streetz team shared that her work will continue — a testament to the foundation she built and the lives she touched.
A private service for Raines is scheduled, with a public memorial to be announced at a later date.
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