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Shirley Finkelstein, 89

NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — Shirley Irene (Wood) Finkelstein, 89 of North Adams, MA, died on Thursday, January 26, 2023 at Williamstown Commons. She was born in North Adams, MA on October 25, 1933 a daughter of Samuel and Hazel (Atwood) Wood. She graduated from Drury High School in 1951 and received her Bachelor’s Degree in English from the University of Massachusetts in 1955.

Shirley married Dr. Manuel Finkelstein on June 13, 1957. Not only were they husband and wife, but they were also best friends, doing almost everything together. Though small in stature, Shirley had a big heart and would help anyone who needed it, donating annually to many causes, both locally and globally. She was also an avid reader and made it a goal of hers to read at least 52 books every year. Shirley was active in the community with her husband, as the two of them were longtime volunteers together at Mass MoCA, the North Adams Historical Society, and the North Adams Tourist Booth. For a stretch of 26 years from 1980 until her husband's knee replacement in 2006, the two of them were active walkers, averaging 4½ miles a day and topping 1000 total miles each year. Shirley also enjoyed both crossword and jigsaw puzzles as well as shopping, dining out, and 1940s jazz and big band music.

Survivors include her two sons - Daniel (Mary) Finkelstein of Troy, MI and Andrew Finkelstein of North Adams, with whom she made her home. She also leaves a sister-in-law, Susan Wood of Long Island, NY and Egremont, MA, as well as several nieces and one nephew. She was predeceased by her husband (2019), as well as two brothers - Samuel and Edwin (Ned), and a son Joseph.

FUNERAL NOTICE: Services for Shirley Finkelstein are private. Burial will be in Southview Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to Friendship Center Food Pantry and MASS MoCA in care of FLYNN & DAGNOLI-MONTAGNA HOME FOR FUNERALS CENTRAL CHAPEL, 74 Marshall St. North Adams, MA 01247. To add to the Book of Memories, please visit www.flynndagnolifuneralhomes.com.


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Recollections & Sympathy For the Family
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Thank you all very much for the condolences. We definitely appreciate your thoughtfulness.

We are remembering the good times. Seeing your names and comments brings a smile to our faces

Thank you all again
from: Dan, Andy and Mary Finkelsteinon: 02-11-2023

Dear Dan & Andy, I was so sorry to read about your mothers passing. We all were neighbors at Autumn Heights where all you kids grew up. Many happy times. Please take care. you have a lot of memories.
from: Christine Ameen Maheron: 02-07-2023

So sad to learn of Shirley’s passing. My sincere condolences to her family. I had contact with her mostly as NA tourist booth volunteers, but I believe that she & Manny were legendary, dedicated walkers throughout the city for many years.
from: Diane Parsonson: 02-03-2023

Andy, I am so sorry for your loss. Thoughts are with you and your family. Melissa
from: Melissa Montoyaon: 02-01-2023

Dan, Mary and family, My sincere sympathy to you and your family on the passing of your mom. I didn’t know your parents personally but I do remember them walking frequently in town. Keep her memories in your heart and she will always be with you
from: Sheila Cookeon: 02-01-2023

Dan, Mary and Andrew, I didn’t know your mom but she sounds like someone I would have been good friends with. I’m so sorry for your loss.

xo, Sue
from: Susan Solakon: 01-31-2023

I am so very sorry to read this sad news, and send my sincere sympathy to Shirley's family. We had not seen each other aiin many years, but when we were young shared a lot of laughter, along with our love of books and reading.
Terry Taft
from: Terry Tafton: 01-31-2023

Danny and Andy. I am so sorry for your loss. Your mom was a terrific lady, person and mom and she showed elegance , wit, intelligence and care with everything and person she touched. I’m sure that she has joined your dad and both are smiling down on her sons. My deepest sympathy. Lenny.
from: Len Girouxon: 01-30-2023

Dan and Andy so sorry for this loss. always remember you guys in the neighborhood .most sincerely to you.
And your families..
from: Keith T Zavattaroon: 01-30-2023

Dan, Mary, & Andrew....
My deep condolences on the death of your mother. May she rest in peace, and be reunited with your father in eternity.
from: Lisa Jarischon: 01-30-2023

Dan,

I am so very sorry. May your memories bring you comfort during this time.
from: Myra Wilkon: 01-30-2023

Dan, Mary and family, So sorry for your loss. Thoughts and prayers are with you at this painful time. May God welcome her into His loving arms.

from: Keith Starron: 01-30-2023

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