Shirley Ann Gockley

She is survived by daughters Sheila Redcay (Mervin), of Fredericksburg, Sylvia Larson (William), of Palmyra, and Lisa Gockley, of Ephrata.

Her husband of 65 years, Eugene, preceded her in death in 2018, daughter Eugenia, in 2012, and grandson James Redcay in 2013.

Born in Beartown, Shirley was a graduate of the former New Holland HIgh School. She often said she lived in the “best of times,” when life revolved around family, friends and community. Her passions in life were many including sewing, reading, quilting, gardening, fashion, interior design, crafting and culinary arts. Many hours were spent preparing for parties of all kinds.

Shirley was a former owner of the Cocalico Creek Bed and Breakfast in Denver.

Active in the community, Shirley was a past member of the Woman’s Club of Ephrata, and sat on the board of both the Ephrata Cloister and the Eicher Arts Center. A liife- long supporter of human rights and causes, Shirley was a Republican until the age of 85, at which time she became a Democrat. In 2014, she was awarded a Pennsylvania Volunteer of the Year Award for her work at the Ephrata Cloister.

Shirley spent a decade outside of Lancaster County, in Bethlehem, where her husband finished his career at Bethlehem Steel. It was a place she remembered fondly for its culture and diversity. Shirley enjoyed summer vacations at South Jersey beaches including Sea Isle and Ocean City. In later years Shirley and Gene would spend the month of September in Ocean City, while family and friends came and went. In the early 1980s she and her husband traveled extensively in Europe, it was a highlight in her 91 years.

Shirley remained in her beloved home until her final days, happy to not finance a corporate run facility for care. She is also survived by nine grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.