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Shirley Wolfe, 95

It is with incredible sadness that we announce the passing of our mother, grandma, and Gigi…Shirley Wolfe. She died at home with the love of her family surrounding her.

Shirley was born in Adams, MA on August 4, 1925, to Gertrude (Brown) and Adolphus Beaupre. She enjoyed many happy days growing up with her sisters and brother and later as adults going on trips where laughter was always heard. It was this love and support for each other that provided the framework for Shirley to build an extended family of her own.

She married Joseph Wolfe in 1947 and together they raised five children in North Adams. Her smile, laughter, energy, and love of life was infectious, and she often wondered how anyone could be bored. She spent many years working at East and Greylock Schools and retired from Williams College where she enjoyed being around young people. Her family was constantly amazed at how she lived and loved her life, caring deeply about North Adams and its residents. She volunteered at MassMoca, the Historical Society, and various beautification projects around the city, and also served on the Board of Directors at the Spitzer Center. At the age of 90, she was awarded a key to the city by Mayor Alcombright for her exceptional public service to the City of North Adams.

Shirley loved nothing more than her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren and the feeling was mutual. All of the grandkids felt they had the best grandma; there was nothing she wouldn’t do for them. She called each of them “Sweetheart” and, despite her small stature, gave the biggest hugs. Fun loving and adventurous, she would accompany her grandchildren sledding at age 65 and skiing even though she didn’t know how. One of our fondest memories was watching her make her delicious fried dough with butter and maple syrup on Sunday mornings. There was nothing better.

Her family appreciated her incredible support and attendance at countless sporting events over the years. Most recently, she was a fixture and proud supporter of the SteepleCats at Joe Wolfe Field, named after her husband who passed away in 1986 and shared her commitment to the city. Her laughter, love, and generosity knew no bounds, endearing her to all who met her, and was often referred to as “Grammy” even by friends of her grandchildren.

Shirley is survived by her children, Eileen and her husband Bill Tobin of Pittsfield, Richard and James of North Adams, Katherine Taverna of Needham, MA, and Donald and wife Judy of Hopkinton, MA. She was predeceased by her daughter Susan who died as an infant.

Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren will miss her dearly. Joshua Tobin and wife Kari, and their children Molly and Cam. Nicole Goupil and husband Jacques, with their children Sebastian, Jonah, and Caleb. Jon Tobin and wife Kristen with their children Kensi and Will. Justin Mitchell and wife Mara with their children Walter and Boden. Heather Mitchell and husband Steve, Ashley Mitchell and Ed Eng, along with Kyle, Brendon, and Ryan Wolfe.

She is survived by sisters, Eleanor Robinson of Adams and Dorothy Smith of Trenton, New Jersey, and was predeceased by sister Betty Farnham and brother Donald Beaupre. She also leaves behind many nieces and nephews and lifelong friends whom she cherished.

A private service with her children will be held on December 12th at 10 am. Flynn & Dagnoli Funeral Home will live-stream the service on Flynn & Dagnoli Facebook page. For anyone who wishes to view the service, please visit Feacebook and "Like" the page. The family is planning on celebrating Shirley's life next summer. We look forward to talking with people whose lives she touched and who touched hers.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to HospiceCare in The Berkshires, Inc., 877 South Street, Suite 1, West Pittsfield, MA 01201. We are grateful for their care and support along with our brother Rich for his loving devotion to our mom. To add to the Book of Memories, please visit flynndagnolifuneralhomes.com.

 


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Donny and Richie...Sorry for your loss
from: Lennieon: 01-12-2021

I just saw this as I was looking for my mom's obit. Your mom was a hoot!! I loved seeing her with her sisters at Fish Pond and she always liked how I cared for the raising of my sons. The heavens are taking all the kindred spirits of that generation. I want to thank you all for sharing your mother with the rest of us.
from: Marie Kelly-Whitneyon: 01-11-2021

My condolences to the Wolfe family. Shirley always had a smile on her face and kind words to offer. One of the most kindhearted and most genuine that you could ever meet. She can finally be with Joe again, and listen to him talk baseball. Prayers for all.
from: on: 12-13-2020

Dear Wolfe family, I remember as a kid growing up in our neighborhood, all of us kids were always at either house. Shirley will always be remembered as the sweetest person who loved kids. My condolences to the whole family. Prayers to all as I am sure she will be missed. 🙏😢
from: Barb Roberts Hermon, Bob Hermonon: 12-12-2020

We are so sorry to learn about your Mom's passing. She had a smile that drew you right in. Our condolences to the family.
from: Linda and Jim Freeneyon: 12-10-2020

I'm so very sorry for your loss I knew your father also and I believe some of you kids so you have my deepest sympathies
from: william Sprowson on: 12-09-2020

To the Wolfe family, Ellen and I were very saddened to hear about your mom's passing. I always enjoyed speaking with her when I would see her out and about. May she rest in peace.

Ellen and Craig Millard
from: Craig Millardon: 12-09-2020

Dear family of Shirley , so sorry for your loss!
Shirley was a sweetheart! The love for her family was no secret! Family ! So important ! Rest In Peace Shirley! Love , KAREN & Family🙏🏻❤️😢
from: Karen George Davison: 12-08-2020

I’m so very sorry to hear of the loss of such a wonderful lady~may memories bring you comfort in the days going forward ~
from: Cheryl Lefaveon: 12-08-2020

I am so sorry too hear about your family’s loss, Shirley will always be In our hearts and forever loved, I’m thankful I got too know Shirley, she was such a bright soul too be around.
from: Jorden Langevin on: 12-07-2020

I am so sorry for your loss! Shirley was an amazing woman and I’m so glad that I was able to get to know her. My grandpa, Donald Beaupre (her younger brother) is definitely waiting for her with open arms. She will be greatly missed ❤️
from: Nicole Boutinon: 12-07-2020

Windsor Lake was one of her favorites and what brought me to her. She had a great smile and it sure lifted my spirits when I met up with her. I am glad to have known her.
from: Debbie Forgeaon: 12-06-2020

So sorry for your loss. I loved the conversations I would have with your mom. She is a great lady, that will be missed. May god bless you all. Sincerely Phil & Terry
from: Phil & Terry Vivorion: 12-05-2020

There are certain people in life that touch you so deeply, they leave footprints on your heart. That was Shirley Wolfe. I don’t think anyone ever had a bad thing to say about her. Shirley was just kind and thoughtful to everyone! To me, the Wolfe family will always be particularly special. First with my brother being best lifelong friends with Jimmy, to Shirley and my Mom being very dear friends. It has always felt like “going home” whenever I had the pleasure of visiting with Shirley. I’m sad that she has left this world, but am delighted that she is reunited with Joe, who passed away shortly after our wedding in 1986. And, I sure hope she and my Mom enjoy a long overdue talk, and a round of golf together. My deepest love and sympathy goes out to all of Shirley’s family and friends who will miss her so much. Godspeed, sweet lady. May angels lead you in, and know that your memory will be eternal. XO
from: Jacquie Beaudreau Bettion: 12-05-2020

We were so sorry to hear about Aunt Shirley's passing. She was a wonderful sister and friend to Eleanor. She will be missed for her love of life and her devotion to her family.
from: Jim and Carol Robinsonon: 12-05-2020

I am so sorry for your loss. My prayers are with you all I will miss seeing her at all games. 😓❤️💐
from: Nanette Schmidton: 12-05-2020

My husband Phil and I met Shirley when we moved to North Adams in 2008. She was an inspiration and role model for community service. I remember how she supported me when I ran for city council and hosted an event at her home. Her energy and support will never be forgotten. Rest in peace sweet friend. Love and hugs to her family. Xoxo
from: Gail Sellerson: 12-05-2020

Prayers and condolences for you all. Shirley was truly a wonderful and special person. Always had a smile and an encouraging word.
from: From Mark Lincourton: 12-05-2020

Oh how sad. It was but only a short while ago I was thinking of her and how I used to deliver milk to her Mom at Columbia Valley Housing. Shirley was always full of life and laughter. She was one great lady and I'm sure she will be missed by many. My prayers to her family and may she rest in peace.
from: Bob Balawenderon: 12-04-2020

My most sincere condolences to Shirley’s
family. I was saddened & surprised to learn of her death,
surprised b/c she was such a pepper pot, I thought she’d
live forever. I knew her primarily through programs
at the Spitzer Center. She had more vigor than folks
half her age. Such an inspiration.
from: Diane Parsonson: 12-04-2020

We loved Aunt Shirley deeply. Will never forget her warmth, her smiles and her laughter. Will miss you always
Bob Claudia Ryan Dylan Corey Gabi Alexa n Charles❤️
from: Smith Family, Hamilton Njon: 12-04-2020

So sorry to hear of Shirley's passing. She was an avid fan of the North Adams Steeplecats. I will miss her smile and her laugh. Rest in Peace Shirley.
from: Dale Waterman on: 12-04-2020

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