Obituary
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Shirley Ann Smith, 89, of Boulder, Colorado, passed away peacefully on September 15, 2024. Cherished for her warmth and infectious sense of humor, Shirley led a life filled with adventure and love, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew her.
Shirley was born on June 9, 1935, in Tonawanda, New York, where she grew up with her parents, Dorothy and Paul House and older sister, Janet Hessel. Raised in Tonawanda, she graduated from Tonawanda High School and spent time with friends ice skating in the winter, taking trips to Canada, and playing basketball and softball. She often regaled us with favorite stories about sneaking out as a toddler to visit her beloved grandmother who lived several blocks away, and of course, the food: Buffalo wings, Pee-Wee's pizza, and beef on weck!
In 1962, with her then-husband, Norman Smith, and their children, Michael, Suzanne and Randall went boldly forth when they moved to Micronesia, living on the islands of Guam, Korror, where they welcomed their youngest child, Norman Jr., and Saipan. During this time she discovered her passion for education, serving as a physical education teacher and guidance counselor at Barrigada Jr. High School.
After relocating to Boulder in 1977, Shirley worked at different places including some time with the Boulder Valley School District. Eventually, she found a home when she joined the Commerce Children's Center, a child care center at the US Commerce Department campus. There, she became known for her delicious home-cooked meals, delighting children and staff alike. Over her 20 years at CCC, she fostered a nurturing environment, forming lifelong friendships and creating a sense of community through her love of cooking.
Beyond her professional contributions, Shirley was the heart of her family. Her unwavering support and boundless love served as a beacon of strength for her loved ones. Her legacy of kindness, quick wit, and unforgettable recipes will forever inspire those who had the privilege of knowing her.
Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, Dorothy and Paul House, her sister, Janet King, her former husband, Norman Smith, and her son, Randall. She is survived by her children, Dr. Michael (Kim) Montague-Smith of Ellicott City MD, Suzanne (Larry) Strear of Boulder CO, and Norman (Ronda) Smith of Castle Rock CO, her grandchildren Oliver, Emily, Nathaniel, Brittni, Seth, and her great-grandchild, Franklin.
A walk on the hillside to celebrate Shirley’s life will be held on the grounds outside of the Commerce Children’s Center on October 12, 2024. People may park on the street and meet at the intersection of Hollyberry Lane and Foxtail Court at 10:00am. The Commerce Children’s Center Association will be accepting donations in Shirley’s memory with proceeds used to create a memorial in her name.
Anyone interested in donating should contact erika winter at
erika.winter.work@gmail.com
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