Shirley L. Laurette

Newark, NY - Shirley (Leaird) Laurette was 90 years young when she passed away, with her daughters by her side, after a brief illness, on July 10, 2025, at Clifton Springs Hospital.

Shirley was born on May 5, 1935, to George J. and Dorothy S. Leaird. Her and her siblings were raised in both Rose and Newark, NY by their mother after the passing of her father when she was just 4 years old.

Shirley is predeceased by her father, mother, and step-father, Henry W. Palmer, sisters Betty Washburn and Nancy Facer, brother, George W. Leaird, several close friends and fur-babies.

Shirley graduated from Newark, NY high school in 1953. Shirley and her mother attend nursing school in Rochester, NY both attaining the degree of Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN). She was a proud member of the original nursing staff at Newark-Wayne Community Hospital in 1957. After several years of service at the hospital and the Wayne County Nursing home, Shirley dedicated many years to private care. She often shared her experience of caring for a patient with an “iron lung”. To finish her nursing career, Shirley returned to the Wayne County Nursing Home for an additional 20 years, retiring in 1997.

Shirley was a dedicated paper crafter, card maker, and calligrapher. Her workspace was a vibrant testament to her passion, adorned with an abundance of supplies and projects in various stages of completion. She found great joy in sharing her creativity. Those fortunate enough to be on the receiving end of her masterpieces were touched by the thoughtfulness she infused into every creation.

Shirley loved spending time with her daughters and her girlfriends. She also had a deep appreciation for all types of pie and ice cream. She proclaimed to have “the best day ever” at her recent Surprise 90th Birthday Pie Celebration surrounded by friends and family.

Shirley leaves behind her daughters, Vicki (Kenneth Cox) Laurette and Kimberlee (James) Murphy; grandson Martin Murphy, and 3 fur-grand babies. She also leaves behind her best friends and luncheon buddies Elissa, Hope, and Kathy. She is greatly missed already.

To honor Shirley’s wishes, there were no formal services. As a tribute to her, a private graveside gathering of family and close friends with a hundred roses in every color was held at Rose, NY Cemetery.

Donations can be made in memory of Shirley to Pet Pride of New York, 7731 Victor Mendon Road, Victor NY 14564.