Honeoye: At age 93, Shirley passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 23, 2024, at the MM Ewing Continuing Care Center in Canandaigua, NY. She was born on July 25, 1930, to the late Gilbert and Florence Alexander. Shirley is predeceased by her husband, Dr. Roger Ward. Survived by her children, Heather (Dr. Mario) Malvarosa, Holly (Gary) Warren, Roger H. (Julie) Ward, and Hugh (Jill) Ward; her grandchildren, Paul (Jessica) Malvarosa, Joelle Gray, Audrey (Matt) Hall, Kiersten (Jeremy Battiyanni) Bendzlowicz, Nathaniel Ward (Jenny Straton), Jason (Aryanne) Ward; and her great-grandchildren, Avery, Collin, Willow, and Colt, along with several nieces, nephews and many friends.
Shirley was a piano teacher by profession, having taught for more than 75 years. She also was a Musician for the Order of the Eastern Star, of which she was a member for over 70 years. She shared her gift of music for many churches, weddings, and funerals. She was the director and musician for the Eagle Star Singers, who performed for many Eastern Star Functions. Shirley was a proud member of the House of Gordon, USA, and the Rochester Scottish Heritage Society. She loved to go the Scottish Games, especially Central New York Scottish Games which she attended for more than 50 years. Shirley was an avid bridge player. She was also an animal lover, especially dogs. Her favorite breed was the German Shepard.
Shirley touched many lives throughout her life. She will be greatly missed by her family and friends.
Friends and family are invited to call from 4-7 PM on Wednesday, May 29, 2024, at the Kevin W. Dougherty Funeral Home, 8624 Main Street in Honeoye, NY. A Memorial Service will take place at 11 AM on Thursday, May 30, 2024, at the Canadice Methodist Church, 5945 Canadice Hill Road in Springwater, NY. Interment will take place privately at White Haven Memorial Park in Pittsford, NY. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: Memorial Fund of the Order of the Eastern Star, Eagle Star Chapter #350, c/o Elaine Milner, 125 Longview Blvd, Livonia, NY 14487. To share a memory or a condolence, please visit: www.doughertyfuneralhomes.com
The family wishes to express their gratitude to the staff of the M.M. Ewing Continuing Care Unit, especially the staff at the Gardens. Their professionalism, expert care, and love for our mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother was amazing. You are a very special group of people.
I am sorry to say that I just learned of Shirley’s passing about an hour ago. What an incredible, strong woman-I was so blessed to grow up around her. She was an inspiration to anyone that crossed her path. Rest in peace you wonderful, sweet soul. I hope you have a blast playing for the finest musicians in history.
My condolences to her family and everyone else that was blessed to know her.
We are sorry for the loss of Shirley.
We are so sorry to hear of Shirley’s passing. She was such a lovely lady who shared her talents so generously with the community.
Wishing peace and strength for the family.
To Shirley’s family,
Leigh and I are so sorry to hear of Shirley’s passing. She certainly was a treasure. Her sense of humor and the twinkle in her eyes said it all.. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Leigh and Marie Statt
To Shirley’s family I am so sorry for your loss. 93 is a good old age and I know she wouldn’t have wanted longer. She was one of the kindest person I knew. Always with a smile and boy could she play cards! Rest in peace my friend.
Sincere condolences to the family….So many fond memories of good times shared.
I’m so sorry for the family’s loss. I didn’t know her well but she always had a sweet smile and quick wit. You had a gem in her.
I am so sorry to learn of Shirley’s passing. She was a ray of sunshine in so many of our lives. Shirley will be remembered for her many gifts, her deightful sense of humor being one of her gifts. Shirley will be remembered fondly.
With deepest sympathy,
Mary J. Watson
To Heather, Holly, Roger, and “Bert”: Please know my thoughts and prayers are with you all at this difficult time. Your Mom, Marion Custer and my late Mom were three good friends. I shall always treasure and appreciate your mother’s kindness and friendship with our family for so many years. Your Mom was a true treasure and was honored to always feel like I was part of an extended family with your parents. Again, my thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
To Shirley’s Family
We are so very sorry to hear of Shirley’s passing. She was such a sweet & personable lady. Our thoughts are with you.