Shirley Ann Shwartz

SHWARTZ, Shirley A. - Age 84, of Lynnfield, formerly of Malden, passed away peacefully and with dignity on June 28, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. Born in Victoria, Texas, and raised in San Antonio by her devoted parents, the late Max and Bernice Hersh, Shirley retained her spirit and devotion to family and friends throughout her life.

Her love story with her beloved husband, the late Howard E. Shwartz, began with a serendipitous spark. Shirley first caught Howard’s eye at a dance, but in the excitement, he failed to get her number. Fate intervened when he spotted her again at an intersection; not willing to let the opportunity pass, he ran out to ask for it. That moment marked the beginning of a partnership that spanned more than 62 beautiful years, a shining example of enduring love. Together, they built a joyful and nurturing home in Malden, Massachusetts, where they raised their family with unwavering love, strong values, and deep faith.

Shirley was the cherished mother of Lisa and Rabbi Yakov Kerzner, Eric and Rachel Shwartz, Lenny and Carolina Shwartz, and the late Dr. Matthew Shwartz and his wife, Lisa Kipnis Shwartz. She was also the treasured sister of Harry Hersh and his wife Judy, Estelle Perlin, Betty Stein and her husband Sam, and Kenneth Hersh.

As the matriarch of her family, Shirley was a source of sage advice and profound comfort. Her support for her children was boundless, a quality that shone brightest through her steadfast presence and strength during their health challenges. This deep devotion extended to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, whom she adored completely. Reflecting on a life lived with purpose and resilience, she often said, "I did the best I could," a simple yet profound motto that captured her humble and steadfast spirit.

Shirley’s legacy continues through her beloved grandchildren: Jared Shwartz and his wife Ali, Rachel Tye and her husband Jordan, Shmuli Kerzner and his wife Raizy, Adina Lehrfield and her husband Yehuda, Dovid Kerzner and his wife Avigyle, Ari Kerzner and his wife Sarah, and the late Zachary Shwartz. Her love extended even further to her ten great-grandchildren - Rafi, Chavi, Yitzchok, Tehila, Reva, Dovid, Zevi, Sari, Remy, Cooper - and one soon to arrive, each of whom filled her heart with boundless joy and pride.

Shirley's life was one of devotion - to her family, her community, and her many passions. A long-time member of Congregation Beth Israel of Malden, she was deeply rooted in her faith and Jewish heritage. She gave generously of her time, volunteering for many years at the Chelsea Hebrew Academy, where her warm smile and quiet dedication touched countless lives.

An artist at heart, Shirley had a gift for jewelry making, crafting delicate pieces that reflected her own grace. Beyond her art, she had a keen eye for beauty and enjoyed shopping and acquiring unique collectibles. Yet, her greatest dedication was to her family; she often sold her jewelry creations to support her children's extracurricular activities, always placing their dreams and needs before her own.

Shirley will be remembered for her boundless warmth, her gentle strength, and the legacy of love, kindness, and resilience she leaves behind. To know her was to be uplifted by her presence - she was a mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend whose memory will continue to shine in the hearts of all who were blessed to share in her life.

A funeral service for Shirley will be held on Monday, June 30, 2025 at 2:00PM at Stanetsky Hymanson Memorial Chapel, located at 10 Vinnin Street, Salem, MA 01970. The service will be available via live stream at the following URL: https://client.tribucast.com/tcid/c25068409899072 Interment at Congregation Beth Israel of Malden Cemetery, located at 250 Main St, North Reading, MA 01864.

Shiva is being held 150 King Rail Drive at the Clubhouse from Tuesday (7/1), Wednesday (7/2), Thursday (7/3) all at 10AM to 8:30 PM Services at 6:30 PM. Friday (7/4) 10AM to 2 PM Services at 2 PM. Services Sunday (7/6) at 10 AM.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Shirley's memory may be made to Brigham and Women's Hospital at [email protected], or to Beth Israel Lahey Health at https://giving.bilh.org/laheyhospitalmedicalcenter/ways-to-give/ to honor the compassionate care she so deeply appreciated.