Shirley Ann Breen, a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, peacefully passed away in the early hours of Wednesday, October 30, 2024, at the age of 91. Her incredible life was marked by love, devotion, and a spirit that touched everyone she met.

Born and raised in Ithaca, NY, Shirley resided there her entire life, deeply rooting herself in the community she loved.

Shirley is survived by her children, William Breen and Thomas (Maria) Breen; her siblings, Herbert Cook, Richard Cook, and sister-in-law Sandra Cook; her cherished grandchildren, Cassandra (Brendan) Byrnes, Steven Rankin, David Breen, Amaretta Beardslee, Morgan (Lucas) Bradbury, and Andrew Breen; and her precious great-grandchildren, Arabella and Adalyn Byrnes, and Atlas Bradbury. She is also survived by her son-in-law, Kenneth Beardslee, who was married to her late daughter, Deb. Shirley leaves behind many nieces and nephews.

She is predeceased by her husband of 50 years, John Breen; her daughter, Debra Beardslee; her brother, Robert Cook; and her sister-in-law’s, Brenda Cook and Nancy Cook.

Shirley was a graduate of Ithaca High School, class of 1950. She began her career at the telephone company, where she worked for one and a half years before transitioning to a switchboard operator position at the Gas and Electric company. After dedicating 13 years to raising her children at home, Shirley balanced part-time work at Cayuga Car Wash and as a CPA filing taxes, while her children were in school. In 1971, she returned to work full-time at Ithaca BOCES as a switchboard operator, a position she held until her retirement in 1988.

In retirement, Shirley embraced life with a passion. She loved playing golf with her husband and friends, and she was an avid fan of the New York Yankees. Shirley cherished her home and community, enjoying countless memories with dear neighbors like Becky, Paul, Wilson, and Eileen, and many friends. She had a fondness for lighthouses and anything reminiscent of the beach, which brought her immense joy. She loved her coffee, brewed weak, and the smoothies made by her neighbor, Wilson. Shirley was also a proud member of the Ithaca Eagles Club, where she made many lasting friendships. She was treasured by her grandchildren, who loved listening to and sharing stories of life, love, travel, and so much more.

One of Shirley’s favorite memories was a trip to Hawaii to visit her son Bill while he was in the Navy. She also enjoyed many delightful visits to Texas to spend time with her son Tom and his family. She was well known for hosting years of holiday get-togethers with family, creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

Shirley’s warmth, love for people, sense of humor and zest for life will be dearly missed by all who knew her. Her legacy of love and kindness will live on in the hearts of her family and friends forever.

A private gathering of close friends and family will be held at a future date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the SPCA of Tompkins County in her memory.