Shirley G. Buddendorff passed away peacefully in her sleep early on July 4, 2020 in the presence of loved ones. She was 85 years old. She was preceded in death by: her soulmate and first husband, James J. Buddendorff; her loving second husband, Irwin R. Sanders; her daughter, Cynthia Buddendorff; her sisters, Estelle G. Hart, Doris Foto Terrell, and Ruth Mary G. Tuft; her parents, Victoria H. Gross and James A. Gross. She is survived by her five children who loved her more: Dr. Kenneth A. Buddendorff (Kris), James J. Buddendorff, Jr., Denise B. Fink (Mark), Charlene B. Bilbe (David), and Dr. Christopher C. Buddendorff (Dr. Nicole). Her daughter-in-law, Ann C. Buddendorff, also survives her. She was the best “Honey” to her loving grandchildren: Jason J. Buddendorff (Devin), Austin W. Buddendorff (Sam), Blake C. Buddendorff; Caroline M. Bilbe and James E. Bilbe; Julia G. Buddendorff, James B. Buddendorff, Lauren M. Buddendorff; and Evan M. Buddendorff, Cameron J. Buddendorff, Brett C. Buddendorff. She is survived by her stepchildren: Gina Sanders, Scott Sanders, and Renee Borne, her sister-in-law, Linda Lee Mears (Ray), and brother-in-law, Frederick. She assumed the role of “mother” to her many nieces, nephews, neighbors, and the friends of her children, as well. Everyone loved her. She was a true “people-person” who never met a stranger. We will all miss her terribly, but please find comfort in the fact she is now at peace and pain-free.
Shirley was born in New Orleans on March 12, 1935. She was raised in the Uptown area. She attended Mater Dolorosa Grammar School and Eleanor McMain and Fortier High Schools. She was employed by Public Service and Motors Insurance. Shirley and Jimmy raised their five children in the Lakeview area. They enjoyed welcoming friends and family into their home where they lived life to the fullest and made beautiful memories. Their homes in Amite were also places for family and friends to gather. Shirley loved to craft/sew, cook, shop (then, return), dance, and play her slot machines. In November 1994, Jimmy passed on, way before his time. Although grief-stricken, she filled her days caring for her grandchildren. She found love and companionship with a family friend, Irwin Sanders, and they married in May 1999. They traveled enjoyed being members of multiple social clubs. Her Lakeview home was lost in Katrina and they re-located to the North Shore. She was very proud to proclaim herself the “honorary” salon manager of Salon Allure. She looked forward to seeing her girls (Denise, Dara, and Carrie) every Friday when they would “cut-up” at the salon while she had her hair done. She cared for Irwin through all of his illnesses until he passed in June 2017. She lived life to the fullest through 83 years. Her health gradually declined, but her spirit and attitude remained until the end.
Our family would like to give our sincere thanks to St. Tammany Parish Hospice and those who cared for her with tenderness and love: Alden, Tatiana, and Chansonette.
Due to the revised restrictions in Orleans parish, the family is holding a private memorial service in Shirley’s honor. The family invites you to share your thoughts, fond memories, and condolences online at www.lakelawnmetairie.com.
In lieu of flowers, you may consider a donation to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital at www.stjude.org/donatenow or by mail to 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN, 38105. Please ensure to dedicate the donation in Shirley’s name. Another option is to donate in Shirley’s name to the Shriner’s Hospital for Children by phone at 844-739-0849 or by mail to 2900 Rocky Point Drive, Tampa, FL 33607 to the attention of the Office of Development.
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