In Memory of Shirley A. Thomas

Obituary

Shirley A. Thomas, 89, of New Hartford and formerly of Gorham, NY, died on Friday, November 15, 2019, at Sitrin Health Care Center.

She was born on February 4, 1930, in Canandaigua, NY, a daughter of the late Sidney and Leora Southerland, where she was raised and worked on the family dairy farm. Shirley graduated from Gorham Central High School, Utica College of Syracuse University and Columbia University. She worked for many years at the Utica Psychiatric Center as a Psychiatric Social Worker.

Shirley was an active member of the First United Methodist Church of New Hartford. She enjoyed music, traveling and photography.

She is survived by a nephew, Roger Root of Canandaigua; niece, Sandra Lewis and her husband, Ronald of Manlius; great niece, Kara Lewis of Austin, TX and many cousins. She was predeceased by her sister, Ruth Root.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, January 3, at 4:30 at Preswick Glen.  A Memorial Service will be on Saturday, January 4, at 1:00 at the Perkins Funeral Home in Gorham, NY.  Calling hours will be from 11:00 to 1:00 at the funeral home prior to the services. Interment will be in Gorham Cemetery. Arrangements are with the Friedel, Williams & Edmunds Funeral and Cremation Services.

Please consider a donation to the First United Methodist Church of New Hartford or Utica College in memory of Shirley.