Shirley Smith Foley, 87 of Phillipsburg, NJ formerly of West Easton, PA died Tuesday, January 10, 2017 at home. Born July 21, 1929 in Phillipsburg, NJ she was a daughter of the late Abram and Ruth (Turner) Scott. A 1947 graduate of Wilson High School, she had been employed by Mack Printing for several years and as a housekeeper/nanny for area families. She earned the nickname “Shotgun Shirley” after helping to apprehend armed robbers in 1974. Shirley was a member of the Red Hat Society and AARP but she especially cherished time spent at her family cabin in Pike County. For 85 years she enjoyed this Pocono Mountains retreat where she was often found feeding the animals and entertaining family and friends.
She is survived by her husband of 32 years: John B. Foley; her daughter: Cindy Lou Moskella and her husband Michael of Williams Twp., PA; 5 grandchildren: Christopher Smith, Jessica Pretopapa, Jaclyn Best, Carin Kocher, Alexander Smith; 5 great-grandchildren: Adrianna, Chase, Carly, Rowan and Rylan and a second cousin who was like a daughter to her: Doris Pianelli of Phillipsburg. She was predeceased by her first husband: John H. Smith; son: John K. Smith and brothers: Jack and Milton Scott.
A Graveside Service will be held 11 AM Thursday, January 19 at New Williams Cemetery, Morgan Hill Road, Easton followed by a Celebration of her Life at Noon at The Meadows in Hellertown; the Ashton Funeral Home, Easton is handling arrangements.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Phillipsburg Emergency Squad or any veteran’s organization. Offer online condolences at www.AshtonFuneralHome.com.
Denise Elliott
January 13, 2017 at 9:22 am
Our sincere condolences on the loss of a great long time neighbor and friend Shirley. Going to miss our chats. May God bless her.
The Elliotts
The Herb Family – Joan, Jim Jr, John, Jeffrey, Jerry & Jan
January 13, 2017 at 3:05 pm
We are saddened to hear the news of Shirley’s passing for her many family and friends still here but we know that there is a joyous celebration in her arrival in Heaven among her many family and friends who have preceded her. May she rest in peace knowing that we have so many wonderful memories of her while she walked with us. Love, The Herb Family – Joan, Jim Jr, John, Jeffrey, Jerry & Jan
Jan Ward
January 13, 2017 at 4:48 pm
Cindy – I am so sorry for your loss. I’ll always remember the adventure to the cabin. I was having some dream and I believe was crying in my sleep (dream). I remember your mom waking me up and comforting me.
Also all the times at your house in West Easton.
Please know you are in my thoughts.
Mark Johnson and family
January 13, 2017 at 10:40 pm
John, Cindy and family. We send our deepest condolences. Myself, my brother Bob and my son Matthew were just by to see Shirley and John in November. She was so happy to see us. I cannot believe she is passed. Shirley was like a mother to Bob and I and will be greatly missed. I am so thankful for her in my life and it would not have been the same without her. If you need anything please contact me through my email. You are all in our prayers.
Elaine Treher Greek
January 15, 2017 at 3:54 pm
To Shirley’s Family, My sincere sympathies to All. I was in the Wilson High School class of 1947 with Shirley. I remember her as a”wild and crazy” kid—so much fun!. She came to slumber parties at my home. When we had class reunions, she rarely came and I wondered what had happened to her. I was surprised to find that she was in Phillipsburg all these years.I know you will miss her, but I’m sure you all have some WONDERFUL memories as I do. Keep her spirit alive.
Cathy Smith Gagne
January 17, 2017 at 8:56 pm
Thinking of you Cindy and your family for the loss of your mom. I remember the good times my family, Mae, Dick and my brother, Richard Smith had while visiting with your parents up at the cabin!!!!! Many stories were told. Many memories I will keep forever.
She always had the biggest smile and laughter!!!!!! Your memories will always be with you Cindy and your family.
My family, The Smith’s