Shirley E Freethy

Shirley Enid James Freethy, 92 of North Chatham, passed away comfortably and peacefully at Cape Cod Hospital on Sunday, November 18, after a brief illness, surrounded by her daughter, granddaughter, and a close family friend. Shirley was predeceased by her mother Arabelle (Cook), father Francis, step father, Edward Fenn, sisters Thelma, Ernestine (Haskins), Vivian (James), June (MacDonald), brothers Roland, Howard, Frank, husband Everett and stepdaughter Linda (Souza).

Shirley was born in her house on Holway Street in Chatham in 1926 and remained a resident of Chatham until her death. She was a graduate of Chatham High School Class of 1934, and was the coordinator of many class reunions over the years.

She worked as a bookkeeper for Acme Laundry Services in Chatham and after having her daughters, worked at Margaret Karr’s Real Estate office, also in Chatham. She was a lifelong member of the First United Methodist Church where she had served as President of the Adult Society, sat on the Music For A Summer’s Night Committee and was often found manning the cash register in the Thrift Shop until she was unable to attend church due to health issues. As a young woman she was active in the American Legion Ladies Auxillary, the 4H Club and helped to form the Chatham Democratic Town Committee.

Shirley will be remembered for her quick sense of humor, her love of Frank Sinatra and John Garfield, old movies, which she watched faithfully with her caretakers, and her fear of anything “creepy crawly.” As GiGi she read stories, drew pictures, played with dolls, and sat through numerous performances of the latest camp songs and cheerleading routines.

She enjoyed watching the birds, boats, and beach from her front window overlooking Crow’s Pond, knitting when she was able, the daily crossword puzzle to “keep her brain working” and babysitting great granddaughter Riley’s baby dolls when requested. Her greatest pride was her home in North Chatham which was built for her by her husband Everett.

Shirley will be remembered by her daughter Naomi as a ‘“strict but loving mother who ruled with an iron fist, even though she was tiny enough to fit in my pocket. She loved to talk about life in “the village” and the escapades she had with her brothers and sisters while growing up.” Great Granddaughter Riley remembers her as “kind.”

Shirley is survived by daughters Pamela (Ocque) of North Syracuse, New York and Naomi (Freethy) of Chatham, 8 grandchildren, including Haley, who was with her when she passed, and 12 great grandchildren, including Riley who was lucky enough to share her home, and Declan who saw her often.

Shirley’s Family would like to thank The Chatham Fire Department for their dedication to Shirley when she needed help leaving or returning to her home after a doctor’s appointment and the nurses on Mugar 4,especially Margo, Lea, and Ashley for their gentleness and kindness caring for Mom as she was preparing to transition.

Visiting hours will be held on Friday November 30, 4-6 pm at Nickerson Funeral Home in Chatham. Funeral service on Saturday December 1 at 11 am First United Methodist Church in Chatham. In lieu of flowers donations to The First United Methodist Church, 16 Cross Street, Chatham or The Chatham Fire Department, Depot Road, Chatham would be appreciated. For online condolences, please visit www.nickersonfunerals.com.