Shirley M. Firth, 82, of Summerfield, FL, formerly of Ridley Township, passed away suddenly on May 27, 2017. Born in Hazleton, PA, Shirley was the daughter of the late Elmer and Amanda Bicking Gardner.

Because of her love for education, Shirley made the difficult decision to go to college while her children were still in elementary school. Shirley attended West Chester College, where she went on to earn both her Bachelor and Master's degrees in education. After earning her Bachelor's, Shirley was employed by Interboro High School as a teacher for many years. While employed there, Shirley enjoyed working with her students and helping them to excel in their academics.

Shirley's favorite holiday was Christmas because she loved being with her family and leading the sing alongs while she played the piano. Shirley was a devoted and loving Mom, Mom-Mom, and as many of the great-grandchildren know her as Florida Mom-Mom.

Shirley was the loving wife of Harry Firth for 61 years and is survived by her daughters Cindy Mandos, Karen (Brian) McHenry and son David (Karen) Firth. Shirley has eight grand-children and seven great grand-children. Shirley has one sister, Marlene Philyam and two brothers Terry (Linda)and Lanny (Diane) Gardner.

Funeral Service: 10:30 AM Friday, June 2, 2017 at the White-Luttrell Funeral Home, 311 N. Swarthmore Ave., Ridley Park, PA 19078, where friends may call after 9:00 AM

Burial: Eastlawn Cemetery

In lieu of flowers, donations in Shirley's memory may be made to the Building Fund of Christ Lutheran Church, ELCM, PO Box 693, Summerfield, FL 34492