Shirley Raines, the founder and CEO of the nonprofit Beauty 2 The Streetz and an advocate for unhoused communities, has died at the age of 58.
The organization confirmed Raines’ passing in a statement shared on Instagram Wednesday, January 28, announcing the loss of the woman many knew simply as Ms. Shirley.
“It is with profound sorrow and heavy hearts that Beauty 2 The Streetz announces the passing of our beloved CEO and founder, Shirley Raines, affectionately known to so many as Ms. Shirley,” the statement began.
“Ms. Shirley dedicated her life to serving others and made an immeasurable impact on homeless communities throughout Los Angeles and Nevada,” the nonprofit continued. “Through her tireless advocacy, deep compassion, and unwavering commitment, she used her powerful media platform to amplify the voices of those in need and to bring dignity, resources, and hope to some of the most underserved populations.”
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Over the years, Raines built a massive following online, where she documented her hands-on work serving people experiencing homelessness across Los Angeles (specifically Skid Row) and Nevada. Her fans were left heartbroken in the comments of the post.
“I am so upset to open my phone and see this news, oh, Ms.Shirley….my heart aches…I can’t believe this,” one wrote.
Another shared, “What in the world?!! We lost an amazing woman. Your legacy will live on Ms Shirley.”
“I can’t even understand this. This is extremely sad and upsetting. Such a beautiful person doing beautiful work,” a third stated.
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According to TMZ, Raines was found dead Tuesday night at her home in Henderson, Nevada during a wellness check. The outlet reported that her twin sisterSheila Raines said Shirley was discovered unresponsive next to her bed. At this time, the family does not believe foul play was involved and is awaiting the results of an autopsy.
In a separate conversation with PEOPLE, Sheila shared more heartbreaking details, including that Shirley’s youngest daughter had tried repeatedly to reach her mother throughout the day on January 27, hoping to stop by her home. When her calls went unanswered, the daughter decided to drive to the house herself. According to Shelia, she waited outside for an extended period, and at one point, even threw rocks at the window in an attempt to get her mother’s attention. When there was still no response, she contacted police to request a wellness check.
The suddenness of the loss has left the family reeling. “We’re in shock,” Shelia told the outlet.
