Shirley May Lensky

Shirley May Lensky, age 88, passed away on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, in Warren, Michigan. She was born on May 30, 1938, in Detroit, Michigan, to the late Charles Chaffin and the late Belva (nee Mayberry) Chaffin.

Shirley was a happy, funny, and easygoing woman with a heart of gold. She had a wonderful sense of humor and was always ready with a witty come back. She had a special way of making people feel welcome, loved, and understood, and her kindness extended far beyond her own family.

Known as “Mom” to many, Shirley’s home was the neighborhood gathering place. The neighborhood kids knew they could always find a warm welcome at her house, whether they were stopping by to hang out, play a great card game, joining a family barbecue, or simply spending time together. Her nieces and nephews were often there, too, making her home a place filled with laughter, friendship, and love. Music was always part of her spirit, from the oldies to country favorites to church gospel songs. Shirley also enjoyed playing the piano and her accordion.

Above all, Shirley was a devoted mother who lived for her children. They meant the world to her, and there was nothing she wouldn’t do for them. She shared a close bond with all of her children but especially with her daughter, and the two were best friends. Shirley had a nurturing spirit that extended to everyone around her, and she spent many years caring for others, always giving of herself with a generous heart.

In her spare time, Shirley enjoyed working on puzzles and word searches, completing dot-to-dot puzzles, visiting car shows, tending to her vegetable garden, and spending time with her adored cats. Whether through a funny joke, a helping hand, a familiar song, or simply opening her home to others, Shirley had a gift for bringing happiness into the lives of those around her.

Shirley was a woman who was loved and adored by so many. Her family, friends, and the neighborhood children whose lives she touched will forever cherish the memories they shared with her. Her loving nature, infectious humor, and the comfort she brought to others will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

She was the loving mother of Linda (Thomas McVeigh) DuBay and John Lensky Jr., and the late Edward “Butch” Heathfield and the late Russell Heathfield. Devoted grandmother of Stephanie (Adam) Riccobono, Haleigh Lensky, Matthew (Anna) DuBay, and Amanda DuBay. Dear great-grandmother of Austin and Myles Riccobono. Sister of Marion Birdwell. She was predeceased by her parents, Charles and Belva Chaffin, and seven of her siblings. She is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, and friends.

Visitation for Shirley will be held on Thursday, October 29, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the D.S. Temrowski & Sons Funeral Home, 30009 Hoover Road at Common (12½ Mile Road), Warren, Michigan. A funeral service will be held on Friday, October 30, 2026, at 11:00 a.m.

Please share memories of Shirley in the guestbook below.