Shirley M. Anderson, 97, of Coudersport, PA passed away on May 23, 2023 at Sweden Valley Manor, Coudersport. She was born on December 20, 1925, in Jamestown, NY, the daughter of the late Thurston David Oliver and Margaret (Youngquist) Melquist. On March 21, 1946, she married Leon E. Anderson in South Pasadena, CA and celebrated 53 years of marriage until his passing on March 31, 1999.

Shirley did clerical work for the Consistory for many years and she also worked for Potter County as an Auditor and in the Office of Aging.  Shirley was an active member of the St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church and participated in the quilting group. 

On September 22, 1947, Shirley was initiated as a member of the Order of the Eastern Star, Eulalia Chapter 148 at a district meeting. She served as secretary for over 20 years and was named a Secretary Emeritus.  She was also a member of the Red Hats, the Coudersport Senior Center, and volunteered with Hospice and delivered meals for Meals on Wheels for many years.  She also participated in Silver Sneakers and the Senior games in Bradford.

Shirley is survived by two daughters, Janet A. Long of Coudersport; Beverly J. (Mac) Gilpin of Bellefonte; two sons, Roger A. (Sharon) Anderson of Virginia Beach, VA; Dale R. (Sharie) Anderson of Coudersport; 11 grandchildren, Brian, Rachel, Keefe, Jason, Melanie, Mark, Britta, Crystal, Angela, Bethany, and Dustin, and 22 great grandchildren.

In addition to her husband and parents, Shirley was preceded in death by a son, David L. Anderson on April 30, 2012. 

In her later years, Shirley remained a central figure in the lives of her family. She was present at family events and always ready for the next gathering, traveling when necessary. With a forward thinking mindset she knitted baby blankets as the family expanded. Shirley played games and engaged in conversations that kept her mind sharp and her heart full as she brought joy to many. 

Shirley, a true matriarch, modeled staying active within the community by regularly attending church and the senior center. Her faith and prioritization of a rich social life allowed her to stay immersed in everyday life. 

Using a daily journal to document major family happenings and ordinary moments, Shirley exemplifies that the fabric of life is knitted together by both. Her legacy will inspire the generations to come. 

Family and friends are welcome to pay their respects Saturday, May 27, 2023 from 5-7 pm at the Thomas E. Fickinger Funeral Home, 210 N. East St., Coudersport, the Eastern Star Service will begin at 5 pm. On Sunday, May 28, 2023 family and friends are welcome from 2-3 pm at St. Paul’s Evangelical Church, 3 Borie St., Coudersport, where her funeral service will follow at 3 pm, with Rev. John L. Kallerson officiating.  A private burial will be in Eulalia Cemetery.

Memorial donations can be made in Shirley’s name to either the St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, 3 Borie St., Coudersport, PA 16915 or to Eulalia Cemetery, P.O. Box 226, Coudersport, PA 16915. 

To share a memory or condolence visit www.thomasfickinger.com.