Shirley Strawberry Biography, Daughter, Divorce, Family, & Net Worth
Shirley Strawberry Biography
Shirley Strawberry is a beloved American radio personality, author, and longtime co-host of the nationally syndicated Steve Harvey Morning Show. Known for her signature warmth, wisdom, and wit, Shirley has become a familiar voice to millions of listeners across the country. In addition to her radio success, she gained acclaim as the author of The Strawberry Letter: Real Talk, Real Advice Because Bitterness Isn’t Sexy, a book that delivers heartfelt guidance inspired by the show’s popular “Strawberry Letter” segment.
Early Life and Education
Born on July 28, 1954, in Chicago, Illinois, Shirley grew up in the heart of the Midwest. While her passion for communication was evident from an early age, specific details about her educational background have not been publicly disclosed. Updates will be provided if and when this information becomes available.
Shirley Strawberry Age, Nationality, and Ethnicity
As of 2025, Shirley Strawberry is 70 years old. She holds American nationality and proudly identifies with her African-American heritage. Raised in Chicago, she embodies the resilience and spirit of her hometown.
Career and Rise to Fame
Shirley’s career in radio began in Los Angeles, where she started as an assistant at KKBT-FM. Her natural ability to connect with audiences soon caught the attention of industry leaders. In 2000, she joined The Steve Harvey Morning Show, where her dynamic chemistry with host Steve Harvey quickly became a cornerstone of the program’s success.
Listeners fell in love with Shirley’s infectious laughter, heartfelt advice, and insightful commentary. As the voice behind the “Strawberry Letter” segment, she has offered real-world guidance to countless individuals navigating the ups and downs of relationships, family, and life. Her genuine approach earned her national respect as both a radio personality and an advice-giver.
In 2011, Shirley turned her on-air advice into print with the release of her debut book, The Strawberry Letter: Real Talk, Real Advice, Because Bitterness Isn’t Sexy. The book resonated with readers just as her radio segment had with listeners—delivering honest, humorous, and healing words.
Shirley Strawberry: Family, Marriage, and Daughter
Shirley is a proud mother to her daughter, Sheridan, from a previous relationship. Sheridan has carved out her own path as a novelist, radio host, and entertainment professional. Shirley has always been candid about the joys and challenges of motherhood and often draws from her experiences when offering advice to others.
Shirley was previously married to Ernesto Williams, an Atlanta-based entrepreneur known for owning Nesto’s Buckhead, an upscale men’s grooming lounge. The couple tied the knot in a private ceremony in January 2015, after meeting in 2013. However, their marriage became entangled in controversy and legal drama.
In 2022, Shirley finalized her divorce from Williams after discovering that he had deceived her by entering their marriage while still married to another woman. In 2023, Williams was arrested and later indicted on multiple fraud-related charges, including operating under a false identity and manipulating victims through romantic or business relationships.
According to Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis, Williams used his marriage to Shirley to boost his credibility and scam unsuspecting individuals. Prosecutors revealed that he “knowingly entered into a fraudulent marriage” with Shirley and leveraged her public image to lure victims into his schemes. He was indicted under Georgia’s Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act and currently remains in custody at Cobb County Jail awaiting further court proceedings.
Shirley Strawberry Height
Shirley stands at an average height of 5 feet 7 inches (approximately 1.7 meters).
Shirley Strawberry Net Worth
With decades of success in broadcasting and publishing, Shirley Strawberry has amassed an estimated net worth of $5 million. Her income stems from her work on national radio, book sales, public speaking, and various media appearances.
Legacy and Philanthropy
Beyond the microphone, Shirley is known for her charitable endeavors. She has supported a range of causes, particularly those focused on women’s empowerment and domestic violence awareness. Her advocacy and dedication to uplifting others have made her not just a celebrated media figure but also a role model to many.
Her journey—from a Chicago girl with big dreams to a nationally recognized radio personality and author—serves as an inspiration to aspiring broadcasters and writers. Through her humor, honesty, and humanity, Shirley continues to influence and uplift audiences across generations.
