Shirley Heffernan Zirbel, 89, of Cazenovia, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, Sept. 7, 2021, at Crouse Community Center in Morrisville, where she resided for the past year and a half. Shirley was born June 30, 1932, to Timothy and Lena Heffernan. Shirley graduated from Fabius High School in 1949.
Shirley and her husband Dick celebrated 70 years of marriage Aug. 12, 2020, prior to his passing on Nov. 12, 2020. They raised six children in the town of Fenner. Shirley worked as a secretary at Cazenovia High School for many years and in Syracuse for the CIA and FBI.
Shirley enjoyed spending time with her family and friends. She talked to everyone she met and was known to become instant friends with strangers. Shirley spent her last weeks of life visiting and laughing with her loved ones. Shirley was of Christian faith and had many expressions she lived by and shared often. “This too shall pass” and “God’s in charge” were her favorites.
Shirley is survived by her children, Chris Headworth (Zirbel), Randy (JoAnn) Zirbel, Tim Zirbel, Michelle Ryan and Darren (Heather) Zirbel, 20 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren as well as numerous nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her brother, Timothy Heffernan and her son, Dale Zirbel.
There will not be any services. To leave a message of sympathy for the Zirbel family, please visit michaelebrownfuneralservices.com.
