Denise "Denny" Shay

Denny was born September 1, 1939, to Donald and Helen Decker of Port Jervis NY. As the youngest child of three, Denny always looked up to her older sister Marilyn and older brother William “Bill” Decker. A proud graduate of Port Jervis High School, Denny followed her brother Bill into the Navy. Denny served with honor in the Nursing Corp from September 1957 - September 1963. She cherished her time stationed at U.S. Naval Station Barbers Point Oahu, Hawaii where she formed lasting memories and friendships.

Upon receiving an honorable discharge from the Navy, Denny returned to Port Jervis NY where she worked tirelessly as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT). She then met and fell in love with Carlton “Sonny” Shay. The two were married on his birthday, August 14th, 1971, and began building their dream home together while working as Tax Collector for Westfall Twp in Matamoras PA. She would then complete their dream life by welcoming their son Brian, followed by their daughter Susan. As her children grew older, Denny took a job as a bus driver for Delaware Valley High School in Milford, PA.

Family meant everything to Denny. Her love and support of her children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews was evident in everything she did. Whether cheering from the sidelines or attending concerts, her presence was a gift. Her radiant smile spoke volumes of the pride she had for her family. Denny and Sonny shared a passion for travel. They enjoyed exploring the country by car, while collecting coffee mugs along the way. Her love of animals often found her at the local animal shelter volunteering and adopting animals in need.

Denise is predeceased by her mother, Helen; father, Donald; sister, Marilyn; brother, William “Bill” Decker; and husband, Carlton “Sonny” Shay

Denise is survived by her son, Brian Shay of Glen Mills, PA; daughter Susan Gibilante of Saint Johns, FL; granddaughter, Megan; grandsons, Michael, Jeffrey, and Ryan; daughter-in-law, Jill Shay; son-in-law Jim Gibilante; niece, JoEllen Leeper of Port Jervis NY; and several nieces and nephews.

Denny’s legacy of love, compassion, and dedication to her family and community will never be forgotten. May she rest in peace, knowing she was loved by all who knew her.

A memorial service for Denise "Denny" will be on held Saturday, April 26, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Westminster Woods at Jullington Creek, 25 FL-13, Jacksonville, FL 32259.