Shirley Louise Gabel

Born on September 9, 1937, in Limerick, PA, she was the daughter of John Marvin and Ruth Emily Evans. A true farm girl at heart, Shirley loved animals (except cats) and carried with her the strength and resilience that came from her rural upbringing. Throughout her life, those around her often described her as "one tough cookie."

Shirley was a proud graduate of Royersford High School, where she participated in the band color guard. After marrying her beloved husband, Gene D. Gabel, 91, she made her home in Boyertown, where they built a life and raised their family together for 69 years.

She was the devoted mother of Douglas N. Gabel husband of Christine E., Dennis L. Gabel husband of Colleen M., and Deana L. Butler wife of Eugene L., and a loving grandmother to seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

A faithful member of Good Shepherd United Church of Christ, Shirley served as a Sunday School teacher for 35 years, helping to shape generations through her patience, faith, and dedication. She was a waitress for many years at Schaeffer's Family Restaurant and the Boyertown Orioles Nest #22 and a candy maker for 10 years at Reppert's Candy.

Shirley and her husband Gene enjoyed traveling with friends taking cruises to Hawaii, Alaska, Jamaica and Nova Scotia.

Shirley Gabel (Evans) is survived by her sisters Janet Mills, Ruth Ann Shaner, Joyce Leary, Mary Russell, and Barbara Algeo and was pre-deceased by her brother Everett Evans.

She will be interred at Fairview Cemetery, Boyertown, PA

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m., followed by the funeral service at 11:00 am. A graveside service will take place at 12:00 p.m., with a luncheon to follow at Good Shepherd United Church of Christ, Boyertown, PA.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Good Shepherd UCC Living Memorial Endowment Fund, 35 W. Philadelphia Avenue, Boyertown, PA 19512, or to Scouting America, Hawk Mountain Scout Council, 5027 Pottsville Pike, Reading, PA 19605.

Shirley will be remembered for her kindness, her willingness to care for others, and her deep love for her family. Her legacy of compassion and service lives on in all who knew her.