Shirley Tucci of Pueblo, Colorado, left us suddenly but peacefully on March 13, 2024. Born Shirley Ann DeMarcus in Crowley, Colorado, on May 28, 1938, she was preceded in death by seven of her siblings: Betty DeMarcus Walker, Jim DeMarcus, Donnie DeMarcus, Sam DeMarcus, Norma DeMarcus Harris, Ray DeMarcus; and her beloved husband, John Tucci. She is survived by a sister that she adored, Elinor (Ellie) DeMarcus Berlin, married to Gilbert Berlin.
"Mamacita," as she was affectionately known to her family, leaves behind three devoted children from her first marriage to Clayton Abbott, and 5 grandchildren: Tammy Williams, married to Bill Williams; Alan Abbott, married to Kathy Abbott and parents of Lance, Clare and Mars; and Brian Abbott, father of Lauren and Juliet, with his former wife Betty Attencio Abbott. Shirley was also close to her extended "grands," Johnna Salazar and her husband Frank, daughter of John's surviving child, Lorraine.
Shirley graduated from Crowley County High School and headed straight into public service with administrative jobs at the Army Depot in Pueblo, the Department of Forestry, and the US Government Printing Office. She retired at age 40, and met the love of her life, John Tucci, of Pueblo. Their 32-year marriage was marked by an endless parade of family and friends at their Pueblo farm where John was born. Shirley loved nothing more than spending time with the people she loved, chatting and reminiscing, playing Rummy, and watching her beloved Broncos on a TV that took up half the living room. Her passion for Rummy and football reflected a passion for winning in general, and some of her favorite memories were of travelling to Cripple Creek with John and their friends. She was extraordinarily lucky throughout her life, and a refrigerator covered with Polaroids of her winnings was evidence of that. A mother through and through, Shirley was devoted to making sure that her family and friends were happy and well fed. And always, with a side of bread! Cooking with her children and grandchildren, particularly Lauren, was the highlight of a family visit. Her handwritten recipes are cherished by all, especially the Chocolate Popcorn.
Everyone knew to avoid calling Shirley during her afternoon "Stories" (soap operas) and immediately after, because she would be on the phone with her dearest friend, Joyce Krizek, to discuss the day's drama. Shirley's fashion sense always included a little bling, whether it was a sequined top, or the jewelry that she could never resist on QVC. Her personality was just as sparkly, upbeat, and she was quick to laugh and scold in jest. She had many nicknames in addition to Mamacita and Grammy, including Tuja Mamma and Squirrelly Shirley.
John's life as a farmer always meant that Shirley was surrounded by the flowers that she loved, whether it was Poinsettias at Christmas or the spring flowers that John usually bought and planted on Mother's Day for her. After John passed away in 2018 at the age of 93, Shirley moved into senior living in the Denver area to be closer to family. She quickly became a favorite of the staff and residents of Peak Gardens Assisted Living in Lakewood, Colorado. She will be sorely missed by them, whom she also considered family.
Shirley's last day with us was Mother's Day, and it was filled with everything that she loved -- family, great food, good conversation, and of course, Rummy.
To celebrate her life, a visitation will be held at T.G. McCarthy Funeral Home on May 21 from 10:30-11:30, followed by a private graveside service at Roselawn Cemetery at 12pm. A reception is currently being planned after the service, and the family will update here with further details.
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