Obituary for Shirley C. Sweeney
Shirley C. Sweeney, 90, of 43 Bluegrass Lane, Ludlow, peacefully passed into God's care on September 30, 2024. Born in Springfield, Massachusetts, daughter of Anthony and Mary Pallotta, Shirley resided in Ludlow for over 63 years and was a beloved teacher who retired from Baird Middle School.
Shirley was predeceased by her devoted husband of 47 years, Thomas F. Sweeney, Sr. and her brother, James Pallotta. Shirley is survived by her children: Thomas and his wife Carrie of Ludlow, MA; Stephen of San Diego, CA; Ann of Auburn, CA; Daniel and his wife Nathaly of Poway, CA. She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren: Julius, Abigail, Emma, and Aine, as well as her brother George Pallotta, sister Judith Palin, Aunt Theresa and Uncle Thomas Kulig.
A graduate of Classical High School, Shirley earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Education from the College of Our Lady of the Elms. Throughout her career, she held various educational licenses and taught Math, English, Social Studies, and Science at all grade levels. Shirley was respected by students and colleagues alike for her dedication and passion for education, leaving a lasting impact on countless young minds.
Shirley instilled a sense of curiosity and wonder in her children. During the summer months, her classroom was a Ford County Squire Station wagon towing a Layton Travel Trailer, as she and her family explored North America. The Cape Cod National Seashore and Wells, Maine were among her favorite destinations.
Beyond her adventurous spirit, Shirley treasured the simple joys of family life, especially holiday gatherings and Sunday dinners, which were filled with warmth and laughter. She had a vibrant social life and pursued many interests with enthusiasm. An avid reader, she passed this love of books on to her children, especially Stephen, who has likely read every historical book ever written. Shirley found joy in long walks along the beach, collecting seashells, and in the quiet creativity of painting classes with her friends. She also enjoyed participating in her parish book club and spending evenings by the fireplace doing crossword puzzles.
After Saturday night mass, Shirley and her husband Thomas would engage in the time honored tradition of playing cards with their neighbors, the Decaros. A devoted member of both St. Mary of the Assumption and Christ the King church communities, she was also a frequent volunteer, supporting her children's many teams, clubs, and activities. Later in life, she extended her generosity to the Community Survival Center and the Chicopee Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, always finding ways to help others.
Shirley had a sweet tooth and a special love for peppermint ice cream sundaes topped with marshmallow and hot fudge, a treat that became a staple in her home and a fond memory for those who knew her best. She will be remembered for her compassion, intelligence, quick wit, sense of humor, and her corned beef and cabbage with snowflake rolls. Most of all, she will be cherished as a loving, kind, and empathetic daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, friend, and colleague. Her warmth and kindness touched many lives, and she will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her throughout her remarkable life.
Visiting hours for Shirley will be held on Friday, January 3rd from 4:00-6:00pm at Ludlow Funeral Home. Family and friends may then gather on Saturday, January 4th directly at Christ the King Parish in Ludlow for Liturgy of Christian Burial beginning at 10:00am followed by procession to Island Pond Cemetery for burial. Memorial gifts may be made to Community Survival Center at: https://communitysurvivalcenter.org/donate/, or to the charity of one's choice.
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Previous Events
Visitation
Friday
3
Jan
4:00 PM
- 6:00 PM
Ludlow Funeral Home
432 East St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Funeral Liturgy
Saturday
4
Jan
10:00 AM
Christ the King Church
41 Warsaw Avenue
Ludlow, Ma 01056
Cemetery Details
Location
Island Pond Cemetery
499 Center Street
Ludlow, Ma 01056
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