Shirley Swayze
Shirley Swayze, 87, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family. She leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and community dedication. A longtime resident of Garwood known for her warmth, wit, and unwavering commitment to others, Shirley touched countless lives throughout her years.
Friends and relatives are invited to visit Tuesday 6/17 from 3-7pm at Dooley Funeral Home, 218 North Ave. West, Cranford, N.J., 07016. A Mass of Christian burial will be Wednesday 6/18, 10am at St. Anne’s Church of Garwood. Interment will follow in Fairview Cemetery, Westfield.
Shirley was a proud Lifetime Rosarian of St. Anne’s Church, cultivating beautiful friendships wherever she went. Her kitchen was the heart of her home where family and friends gathered for generations of cherished meals and memories. The students of St. Anne’s School still comment on her mac and beef she prepared for school lunches in the cafeteria growing up.
Deeply involved in her community, Shirley was an active member of the Garwood Seniors and the Republican Club. She truly enjoyed the many great friends she exercised with, dined with and laughed with over the years.
She proudly served as a poll worker during elections, helping to uphold the democratic process for many years. A passionate Patriot, she was a devoted supporter of the Wounded Warriors and Tunnel for Towers and always advocated for those who served.
She took great pride in managing and preserving the family business… a testament to her strength and determination. After retiring from the PAT office at Overlook Hospital, Shirley continued her lifelong commitment to service by volunteering at Overlook Hospital, offering her time and care to patients and staff alike.
Above all, Shirley was a devoted matriarch, leaving behind 4 children: Niki Lynn (John), Daniel (Roe), Joanne (Ray) and Lori Anne (Henry). 9 Grandchildren: Daniel, Anne Marie, Christopher, Anthony, RJ, Katie (Ian Gillen), Steven, Michael & Matthew. 11.5 Great Grandchildren: Daniel, Alivia, Francesca, Benjamin, Joey, Nicholas, Salvatore, Alina, Finn, Chase, Owen & 1 more on the way, along with many nieces and nephews. Her love, guidance, and sharp sense of humor will live on in each of them.
Shirley will be remembered for her strong spirit, generous heart, and deep-rooted love for her family and community. She will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her memory to St. Anne’s Church or Lacey Food Bank, 102 Station Drive, Forked River, NJ 08731.