Shirley Landry Maldonado, a beloved mother, cherished grandmother, great grandmother, sister, and friend, departed peacefully from this world on Thursday, April 25, 2024, at Landmark South Nursing and Rehabilitation in Baton Rouge. She was 84 years old. She was the beloved wife of the late Joe Maldonado, whose untimely departure left Shirley to gracefully assume the roles of matriarch and rock of her family.
Shirley was born on January 14, 1940, in Lafayette to the late Louis Adam Landry and Edith Broussard Landry. She was one of four children born to their union.
Throughout her life, Shirley epitomized love, strength, and unwavering support for her children. Despite her responsibilities at work, she never hesitated to stand by her children's side in all their endeavors. As the band mom for Michele and the pitcher for batting practice for her boys, Shirley was not only a parent but also a dedicated cheerleader for her children's passions.
While cooking wasn't her forte, Shirley could still whip up a delicious meal when needed, although she often preferred ordering out. Her leisure activities included quilting and sewing, hobbies she shared with her granddaughter, passing on her skills and wisdom through generations. In her downtime, Shirley found solace in watching her favorite channel, Hallmark, and cherished her visits with her siblings, maintaining the family bonds that were dear to her heart. Fond memories shared by her children include Shirley's joy in playing games with her family, as well as a shared love for shopping and antiquing with her sisters and cousins. These moments were filled with laughter and friendly competition as to who would make the first purchase or who made the best deal, creating cherished memories that will endure for generations to come.
While Shirley's passing leaves a void in the hearts of her loved ones, they find comfort in the knowledge that they will be reunited with her in everlasting life. Rest peacefully, dear Shirley, knowing that you are deeply loved and will be forever remembered with love and gratitude.
Left to honor and cherish her memory are her four children: Michele Nardini; Neil Maldonado (Kristen); Craig Maldonado (Jamie); and David Maldonado (Lori). Shirley's heart overflowed with love for her grandchildren, whom she adored: Lauren Barfield (Louis), Jennifer Upshaw (Brent), Alexandria Maldonado, Spencer Maldonado, Logan Maldonado, Livia Maldonado, and Brooks Maldonado. Additionally, she leaves behind eight great-grandchildren, her sisters Urline Knight (Kermit) and Gerry Duplantis (John); her brother, Warren Landry (Martha), as well as her sister-in-law Rosemary Surkand.
Shirley now joins her beloved husband, Joseph "Joe" Maria Maldonado, in eternal rest.
A Mass of Christian Burial to celebrate Shirley's life will take place at 1:00 pm on Saturday, May 4, 2024, at St. Peter's Catholic Church, with Fr. William Blanda officiating. Following the mass, Shirley will be laid to rest beside her husband at Holy Family Mausoleum. The family will receive guests on Saturday at Evangeline Funeral Home from 10:00 am until 12:45 pm.
Serving as pallbearers are Shirley's sons, Neil, Craig, and David, along with her grandsons Spencer, Brooks, and Logan. Warren Landry, Kermit Knight, and Johnny Duplantis are honored as honorary pallbearers.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Shirley's caregiver, Shawna Robertson, for the love and companionship she provided during Shirley's care.
Please visit Shirley's memorial page at www.evangelinenewiberia.com to share memories and condolences.
Evangeline Funeral Home is entrusted with the arrangements.
