Shirley Ann Shea, 82 of Carlisle, PA was born on March 5, 1943 in Newton, NJ to the late George and Ruth (Thompson) Moss. She was a graduate of Newton High School, class of 1961. Shirley thoroughly enjoyed rearing her four children and was actively involved in supporting all their activities- swimming, football, bowling, baseball and softball.
Shirley was an excellent seamstress creating outfits weekly. She was active with the Broadcasters Drum and Bugle Corps founded in Newton in 1957 and could pivot on a dime until just a few years ago! Shirley was active in her community in NJ. She served on the recreation Committee, was a past-secretary and past-president of the Newton Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary, coached girls’ softball and was a Cub Scout, Brownies and 4H Leader.
After working for United Telephone in Newton for eight years, Shirley transferred to the Carlisle office (which was then known as Sprint) and continued working until retiring in 1999. Shirley was an active member of the Binky Patrol, a national organization that distributes handmade blankets (“binkies”) to children in need. She enjoyed playing golf with the Ladies of the Afternoon, crocheting, and playing cards and games with her Sprint buddies. She also enjoyed the precious time she had with her granddaughters.
Shirley was predeceased by her husband, Bernard P. Shea. She is survived by her three sons, Michael Thom (Tracey) of Greeneville, TN; Rick Thom (Myrna) and Gary Thom (Lori) of Las Vegas, NV; daughter, Charlotte Thom of Byram, NJ; grandchildren, Madison, Kyana and Kaylyn Thom, Melissa Crawford, Roman, Reece, Remy and Rylan Ivaldi; a sister, Carolyn and husband, Daniel Kent, III, of Hampton Twp., NJ and several nieces, nephews and cousins.
Shirley passed peacefully at her daughter’s home surrounded by her love on Saturday, August 9, 2025.
Arrangements for Shirley are private under the direction of the Smith-McCracken Funeral Home.
In honor of Shirley’s memory, donation can be made to the Michael J. Fox Parkinson’s Foundation; https://give.michaeljfox.org
Online condolences may be offered to the family at www.smithmccrackenfuneralhome.com.
