Shirley Tarpley was born May 6, 1953 in Summerton, South Carolina.  Shirley moved to Miami, Florida at a young age and as a young woman began working for Dade News, which is currently Progolix.  Shirley joined Teamsters Local Union 769, May 1, 1973 and has been serving as a shop steward for thirty-four years.  July 1, 1992, Shirley was asked to serve on the Executive Board and is currently serving as one of the Local’s Trustees.

     While deciding to make Miami her permanent home, Shirley decided to joined the Saint Matthews Freewill Baptist Church, where she currently serves as President of the Willing Workers and the Youth Usher Board.

     Shirley enjoys attending the many Teamsters’ conferences and events.  She believes that by being a Teamster trustee and steward she is doing her part for the working people. She believes that we must continue to fight and strive for the rights of our members. For united we stand and divided we fall.