“It was always so wonderful talking to Shirley! I admired her for her energy, commitment and her drive to show up for each and every class or event happening. I loved listening to Shirley's stories about her family , about her childhood and her children, grand and great-grandchildren . I loved that Shirley continued to help others even when she herself was weak. With all the sad events Shirley went through in life, she was still so resilient, accepting reality and adapting to it in her own special way. It felt like Shirley drew strength from her beautiful family and also very much from the wonderful Or Hamidbar and Havurah communities to get through these sad times. I learned from Shirley about the importance of persistence of study, about friendship and the ability to give but also to accept help. May Shirley’s spirit of persistence, resilience, love of learning and love of family be a guide to us all and may her memory be a blessing !”

Sascha Lazar

“I enjoyed the times I was able to sit by Shirley at dinners after Shabbat services, and at other various events. If I was running late, she would save me a spot. She has shared many wonderful stories about her beloved husband ‘Pinky.’ Shirley had a great sense of humor and had such a positive attitude! Even as life dealt her some tough losses, she persevered. I will always admire and love her.”

Larea Pettersen

“I first met Shirley at ToraTeachings and enjoyed sitting next to her when we would go out to dinner afterwards. Shirley was always positive and pleasant. We both shared a love of art, and she would tell me about her knitting as well as when she used to do pottery, my favorite. Not being a native Californian, I was always looking for information about my new state. Shirley explained to me about the Boyle Heights section of L.A. where she grew up. I will miss Shirley and her kind personality.”

Susan Ortner