Born on December 11, 1938, in Utica, NY, she was the daughter of Jack and Hilda (Churchill) Powers and lovingly raised by Henry and AnnaMae Banker. Shirley was a woman whose gentle nature and loving presence were felt by all who had the pleasure of knowing her. Shirley graduated from Scotia Glenville High School, Class of 1956.
She dedicated many years of service to the First National Bank of Scotia, followed by a fulfilling career at General Electric Company, where she worked for 18 years before her well-deserved retirement. An avid quilter and occasional knitter, Shirley's artistic talents were a testament to her patience and attention to detail. Her quilts, often given as gifts, were treasured by those who received them, wrapping her loved ones in the warmth of her affection.
Shirley's zest for life extended to her love of travel. She enjoyed going on cruises and taking day trips to Vermont to visit family. A devoted fan of her grandchildren's sporting events, Shirley could always be found in the stands, cheering them on with enthusiasm and pride.
Her presence at these events was a source of encouragement and a testament to her unwavering support for her family. Shirley's commitment to friendship was evident in the quality time she spent with her faithful group of friends. Whether they were sharing stories, laughter, or simply enjoying each other's company, these moments were a precious part of Shirley's life.
As a member of the Schenectady Yacht Club, she found joy in the camaraderie and the serene beauty of the water. Shirley is survived by her husband of 32 years, Gerald F. Romeo; children, Cheryl Friello, Debra Bernardine, and James Smith (Michele); beloved grandmother to Dominick Friello (Brittany), Matthew Friello, Christopher Bernardine, and Jacob Bernardine; stepchildren Judy Hogan (Diallo), Gerald F.
Romeo, Jr. (Jill), and John Romeo; step grandchildren and step great grandchildren. Her brother, Charles Powers (Ruth), along with nieces and nephews will also cherish her memory.
A Funeral Service will be held on Friday, August 23, 2024, at 11 a.m. at Glenville Funeral Home, 9 Glenridge Road, Glenville.
Calling hours will be from 10 a.m. until the time of services on Friday.
Burial will immediately follow at St. Anthony's Cemetery, Glenville. Memorial contributions may be made in Shirley's memory to the Parkinson's Study Group with Albany Medical Center at https://parkinson-study-group.
org/donate-to-the-psg/ . For online condolences please visit glenvillefuneralhome.com .
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