Broussard’s Mortuary Nederland

Shirley Faye Adair, 75, of Port Neches, passed away peacefully with her daughters at her side Monday, November 3, 2025. She was born on January 15, 1950, in Cleburne, to Annie Alice Davis and J.D. Anderson. Survivors include her daughters, Michelle Stephens and her husband, Bobby and Tamra Adair; grandchildren, Rocky, Amanda and her husband, Daelon, James and his wife, Kayla, Riley and Laila, Katelyn and Colton, and Hunter and Rachel; great-grandchildren, Kylie, Heavenly, Beverly, Calder, Aubree, Patrick, and one on the way; sisters, Rita Lara and June Smith and husband, Dan; brother, Don Anderson; and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband of 40 years, Larry Adair; and daughter, Bobbie Jo Boudreaux A gathering of Mrs. Adair’s family and friends will begin at 5:00 p.m., until 8:00 p.m., Friday, November 7, 2025, at Broussard’s 505 North 12th Street, Nederland. Her funeral […]

Myra Ann Breaux,  70, of Port Neches, died Monday, November 3, 2025. She was born on November 23, 1954, Port Arthur, to Lewis A. Angelle and Lilly Mae Melancon. Survivors include her children, Jeremy Breaux and Mallory Breaux and her husband, Mark Hilton; grandchildren, Allie Dearing and her husband, Zachary, Coltyn Hickman, Josie Breaux, Kylee Hilton, Cade Breaux, Rylee Hilton; great-grandchildren, Jasper Dearing and Ryan Dearing; and sisters, Cecil Kemp and Tammy Menking and husband, Allen. She was preceded in death by her parents, Lewis A. Angelle and Lilly Mae Melancon; husband, Carol Lee Breaux; and brother, Jeffrey Angelle. Myra’s cremation arrangements will be handled through Broussard’s Crematorium under the direction of Broussard’s, 505 North 12th Street, Nederland.  

Lula “L.V.” Bearden, 95, of Port Acres, died Tuesday, October 28, 2025. She was born on December 18, 1929, in Port Arthur, to Corine Marie Guillot and Allen Bernard Loncon. Lula enjoyed sewing, crocheting, puzzles, and watching birds. She also loved camping in her younger years and loved going to her childhood church in Port Acres, St. Therese, The Little Flower of Jesus Catholic Church. Survivors include her children, Terry Bearden and his wife, Dorine, of DeRidder, Louisiana; Janice Blackwell of Fannett; Allen Bearden and his wife, Marjorie, of Orange; Melanie Wilson of Port Neches; Clyde Bearden of Port Neches; David Bearden of Beaumont; Heather Tomlin and her husband, William Newsome of Beaumont; 15 grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; 5 great-great-grandchildren; and sisters, Carldine Schultz of Port Neches; and Sharon Spaulding and her husband, George of Port Neches. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Clyde Bearden; son, Waymon Bearden; […]

Lois Loupe of Nederland, Texas passed away on Saturday October 25th  just 3 days after her 89th birthday. Lois Loupe was born in Breaux Bridge, Louisiana on October 22nd, 1936, and moved into the Port Arthur, Texas area when she was about 5 years old. She married the love of her life, Gerald Loupe, on November 12th, 1955, and they moved to Nederland, Texas shortly thereafter where they lived for the rest of their lives in the same house, they raised their family in. She leaves behind 4 children, Lynell Landry and her spouse, Hank Landry; Craig Loupe (Spouseless, but optimistic); Glen loupe and his spouse, Vickie Loupe; Theresa Roberts and her spouse, Gary Roberts. She leaves behind 8 Grandchildren, Emily, Doug, Dakota, Kayla, Amanda, Shanna, Nolan, and Kaylee. Also 12 Great grandchildren, Izzy, Juliet, Ian, Noelle, Jolie, Luc, Mason, Hunter, Sierra, Braeden, Dylan, and Landon. She also leaves behind […]

Brian Wayne Morgan, 41, of Port Neches, Texas, unexpectedly passed Thursday, October 23, 2025. He was born May 31, 1984, in Port Arthur, Texas, to Elizabeth Alise Maxey and Brad Wayne Morgan. Brian graduated from Nederland High School in 2002.  After graduating, he worked various jobs but found the one he loved as a lab technician in the petrochemical industry. Brian’s kind and loving soul will be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His freely given hugs and affection brought great comfort to those who knew him. His laughter was the soundtrack for a happy day, and his infectious smile could light up a room. We will always cherish these memories, and he will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. His loss is a pain that can never be filled. His father will always cherish the memories they shared, like […]

Joseph “Joey” Wayne Fuselier was born on November 13, 1962 to Elvin and Sandra Ann Fuselier at Doctor’s hospital in Groves Texas. He graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School in Port Arthur in 1981, then attended the pipefitter’s local 195 apprenticeship program where he graduated on March 26, 1987. He was a union pipefitter working alongside his father, brother, nephew and cousin. He worked his way up through the years to be in supervision. He was able to teach many apprentices throughout the years. He was well respected and one of the best in his trade. Joey loved fishing, camping, gardening, and most of all spending time with his wife, kids, and grandkids. He never met a stranger, always went out of his way to help those in need, and loved to laugh. He also enjoyed watching The Dallas cowboys and picking on his Kansas City Chief friends. So many […]

Viola Salinas Hernandez Gaytan passed away on Friday, October 17, 2025, in Port Arthur, Texas at the age of 94. Viola was born on April 22, 1931, in Brackettville, Texas. She was one of five daughters born to Santiago and Henrietta Salinas. Viola’s family moved to the Port Arthur, Texas area where her father found work at the Texaco refinery. Viola attended Franklin School and graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School in 1950. She married Joe Hernandez, her high school sweetheart, on February 3, 1951, in Port Arthur, Texas. They had three children: Joel, Roxanne (Roxie) and Kristi. Viola enjoyed her children, attending their activities and being around their friends when they would come by the house. She and Joe had an active social life with many friends; many of whom they had been friends with since childhood. Every year they would rent a beach cabin for the 4th of […]

Melissa Ann Edwards, beloved wife, mother, daughter, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on October 15, 2025, at the age of 47. Born on January 28, 1978, Melissa brought joy and light into the world from the very beginning. She graduated from Nederland High School in 1996 and went on to build a life rooted in love, faith, and family. On October 5, 2002, she married the love of her life, Brent Edwards, and together they created three beautiful children: Cameron, Jayme, and Jadyn (deceased January 2008). Melissa was endlessly proud of her family and poured her heart into being a devoted and loving mother and wife. She was the cherished daughter of Darlene and Scott Bonsall and Rexford Fletcher, and a beloved sister to Scott Bonsall Jr., Nicole Bonsall, Rusty Fletcher, and Dusty Fletcher. Melissa’s deep connection to her family was one of the most important parts of her […]

Russell Fontenot, 85, of Nederland, died Monday, October 6, 2025. He was born December 17, 1939, to Agnes Chapman and Lee Fontenot, in Jennings, Louisiana. Russell graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School, Port Arthur, Texas in 1959. Then joined the United States Navy the same year. He also married the love of his life, Shelby Jean DeVillier, that same year. They were married for 65 wonderful years, which produced three beautiful daughters. Russell was a member of Pipe Fitters Local #195. He was a devoted member of St. Charles Catholic Church where he served as an usher, a marriage counselor, a catechism teacher, and a Eucharistic minister. He was a long-standing member of the Knights of Columbus. He spent many years with the Nederland Volunteer Fire Department. The family would like to thank Heart to Heart Hospice for all of the care that they provided. A special thank you to […]

It is with both sorrow and hope that we share the passing of my father, John E. Jones Sr. This afternoon, Dad laid aside his earthly tent and entered the city whose foundations are built by God. Through the salvation accomplished by Christ, his long battle with Parkinsonian Dementia has ended, and his suffering is no more. My family and I are deeply grateful for the prayers, love, and support so many of you have given us during this journey. Service details will be shared soon. Beyond his faith and love for family, Dad had a lifelong passion for duck hunting and football. At Stephen F. Austin, he was a tough-as-nails linebacker, earning the nickname “Pine Knot” after knocking out more than a few sets of teeth with his forearm. One of the most defining chapters of his life came during his service to our country in Vietnam — a […]

Today we gather to celebrate the life of Karl Leone, a man who lived with passion, grit, and an undeniable love for adventure. He was more than a father, a husband, a brother, or a friend—he was a force of nature who found joy in the outdoors, in speed, and in the simple moments that made life full. Karl dedicated his life to serving God and his community, working in Law Enforcement.  Recently retiring from Nederland Police Dept after serving for 33 years in multiple capacities. From patrol man and detective to working alongside FBI. But he was most proud of his final assignment as School Resource Officer where he founded the Hunting and Fishing Safety classes for NISD. He found pleasure in not only teaching children how to hunt and fish safely but also teaching them a respect for nature and the adventure of exploring all the beauty it had […]

The sun shone a little brighter on January 15, 1957, when Jeri Gay Peet graced the world with her sweet presence. The middle child of Carole and JD Peet, Jeri grew up in Port Neches and graduated from Port Neches-Groves High School. On April 30, 1977, Jeri married Ronnie Floyd, later welcoming daughters, Marlee and Madi. Jeri’s occupation may have been accounting clerk for Provost Umphrey, but her title was Super Mom. She cooked dinner for her family every night and on Sundays, she made pancakes for myriads of hungry customers. Young athletes flocked to the Floyd girls’ teams, specifically to devour Jeri’s legendary pigs-in-a-blanket. When she wasn’t in the kitchen, Jeri was in the car, taking her girls to their various athletic activities and lessons. And she worked fulltime! Jeri enjoyed traveling with her family, especially to Colorado, where she was more likely to admire the view than to […]

Larry Wayne Reynolds, 63, of Port Neches, died Tuesday, September 23, 2025. He was born on August 3, 1962, in Pasadena, to Mildred Gwyn LeBeouf and Norman Reynolds, Sr. Larry retired from the City of Port Neches as the Building Official/Assistant Public Works Director after thirty-six years of service. He was also a part-time inspector for the City of Nederland, Jefferson County Water District 10, and the City of Groves. He and his wife, Anne, owned and operated Reynolds Home Inspection, LLC for the past ten years. Larry was preceded in death by his father, Norman Reynolds, Sr. Survivors include his wife, Anne Reynolds; mother, Gwyn Reynolds; brother, Norman Reynolds, Jr., and his wife, Becky; sister, Melissa Fisher and her husband, Chris; niece, Maury Reynolds; his very special nephew, Reid Reynolds; and in-laws, Byron and Skeet Buckalew. Larry was a devoted stepdad to Heather LeTulle and her husband, Sean Mitchell; […]

Leslie Cook, 67, passed away on Sunday, September 21, 2025, in Nederland, Texas. Born on February 15, 1958, Leslie lived a life marked by her dedication and kindness, leaving behind a legacy of warmth and cherished memories. Leslie was the owner of Cook’s Nursery Nederland since 1997 and will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Survivors include her sister, Becky Hoke; and niece, Jennifer Williamson and her husband, Andrew. A gathering of Ms. Cook’s family and friends will begin at 2:00 p.m., with her eulogy at 3:45 p.m., Sunday, October 5, 2025, at Broussard’s, 505 North 12th street, Nederland. Her cremation arrangements were handled by Broussard’s Crematorium, Beaumont.

Kenneth “Mr. Bill” Feidler, 87, of Port Arthur, died Saturday, September 20, 2025. He was born on January 25, 1938, in Lynnville, Indiana to Irma Nicholson Feidler and Walter Frederick Feidler. Survivors include his wife, Nancy Feidler; sons, Larry Feidler and his wife, Kimberly; and Michael Feidler and his wife, Michelle; grandchildren, Graham Feidler and his wife, Stephanie; Zachary Feidler and his wife, Meliza; Madeleine Feidler, Myka Feidler, Alexandria Miller, Aiden Feidler, and Andria Feidler; and great-grandchildren, Eleanor, Sophie, and Nolan Feidler. He is preceded in death by parents, Irma and Walter Feidler; siblings, Walter Gerald Feidler, Ruby Lee Gander, Lillian Rae Madden, Betty Kathryn Feidler, George Edward Feidler, and Robert Wayne Feidler. A gathering of Mr. Feidler’s family and friends will be from 9:30 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. with his funeral service at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, September 27, 2025, at Broussard’s, 505 North 12th Street, Nederland. His interment to […]

Marilyn Hopper, 86, of Beaumont, died Thursday, September 11, 2025. She was born on October 15, 1938, in Chicago, Illinois, to Myrtle Kooda and C.D. Spears. Marilyn was the oldest of 5 children: 2 sisters, Shirley and Beth, and 2 brothers, Buddy and Ralph. Her family moved to Highlands, Texas when she was in Junior high school. Her future husband, Jack Hopper, spotted the new girl in town who he described as looking like a “movie star”, and they ended up only dating each other all through school and got married shortly after high school. Marilyn and Jack married, and Marilyn worked at Texas A&M university to put dad through school at A&M, then they moved to University of Delaware, and LSU, while Marilyn worked to put dad through school the whole way through.   They moved to Beaumont and Marilyn then went to college at Lamar University to get her […]

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.” With those words in her heart, Marilyn Yvonne Lyles began her final journey. As she walked, she saw green pastures and still waters, and she felt her soul restored. Taking the Savior’s hand, she heard Him say, “Do not be afraid. I am with you.” And with peace, she followed Him through the valley of the shadow of death into the house of the Lord, where she will dwell forever. Marilyn Yvonne Lyles, 88, of Port Neches, died Wednesday, September 10, 2025. She was born on August 27, 1937, in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina, to Edna Abernathy Stephens and Clyde Stephens. Marilyn was happiest outdoors, shaping her yard and garden with care, leaving behind blooms and quiet spaces that reflect her own strength and grace. She was a gifted cook. Her dishes were family favorites, though no one has ever been […]

James Lynn Stinson, 77, of Nederland, Texas, passed away peacefully on September 1, 2025, surrounded by family.  He was born in Beaumont, Texas, to James Fred Stinson and Maudie Josephine Stinson. James graduated from French High School in Beaumont, Texas in 1966. After graduating high school, he went on to play football at Lamar University where he earned his undergraduate and master’s degrees.  During that time, he married the love of his life, Mary “Libbie” Ruysenaars on February 23, 1968.  He spent seven years as a teacher and football coach, while they started a family.  He moved to Nederland in 1978 and went to work for Mobil Oil, later to become Exxon Mobil, until he retired in 2013. James will forever be remembered for his love and dedication to his family.  Affectionately known as “Papa,” he took an active role in the lives of his grandchildren.  He loved spending his […]

Ryan Scott Thibodeaux, 40, of Nederland, died Monday, September 1, 2025. He was born on October 22, 1984, in Lafayette, Louisiana, to Christina Ja’Mes Sellers Lyon and Scott Anthony Thibodeaux. Survivors include his mother, Christina Sellers Lyon; maternal grandmother, Rose Landry Turner; paternal grandfather, Huey Thibodeaux; daughter, Gillian Thibodeaux; sister, Lauren Kainer and her husband, Matt; cousins, Sarah Trahan and husband, Evin; Kimia Miller and husband, Zach; and Amy Malekian; godmother and aunt, Tammy Malekian and husband, Ali; former wife and forever friend, Vicki Cordle Rogers and husband, Jacob. He was preceded in death by his father, Scott Anthony Thibodeaux; bonus father, Ted M. Lyon; maternal grandfather, James F. Sellers; bonus grandfather, Curtis L. Turner; paternal grandmother, Betty Seaux Thibodeaux; bonus grandmother, Patsy Lyon; and bonus grandfather, John B. Lyon. Ryan was a Southeast Texas and Lafayette, Louisiana Tattoo Artist who took pride in his work and gave him the […]

Ray Gene Tweedel, 100, of Buna, died Friday, August 29, 2025. He was born in Port Arthur, on February 15, 1925, to Leona Chachere and Charles Thomas Tweedel. Survivors include his son, David Tweedel and his wife, Deborah, of Buna; grandchildren, Stephanie Tweedel and Randy Tweedel; and great-grandchildren, Taylar, Saylar, Amalie, D.J., and Roxy; brother, Jimmy Tweedel and his wife, Elsa, of Port Arthur. He is preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Lula Mae Richard and Charlene Duplant; and brothers, Charles, Arthur, and Thomas Tweedel. Memorial contributions may be made to St. James Catholic Church, 3617 Gulfway Drive, Port Arthur. A gathering of Mr. Tweedel’s family and friends will begin at 9:00 a.m., at Broussard’s 505 North 12th Street, Nederland. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m., at St. James Catholic Church, 3617 Gulfway Drive, Port Arthur, on Saturday, September 06, 2025. An internment will […]

Tracy Nolan Maddox, 41 of Nederland, Texas, passed away Tuesday, August 26, 2025. Tracy was born January 27, 1984, in Nederland. Tracy was a 2003 graduate of Nederland High School. He loved hunting, cooking delicious food, spending time with friends, watching scary movies, and traveling around God’s beautiful planet. While his time was cut short, Tracy left a lasting impact on the people who were blessed to know him. Tracy is survived by his daughter, Rilee Maddox of Anahuac, Texas; father, Clint Lewis, Sr. of Kountze, Texas; siblings, Polly Reddin and her husband, Glenn; Brandy Reddin; Tiffany Darbonne and her husband, Neal; Clint Lewis, Jr.; Courtney Morris and her husband, Alex; and Carol Beard. He was preceded in death by his beautiful baby girl, Sunni Gale Maddox; Carolyn and Edgar Maddox, and Dianne and Charles Lewis. During his time on earth, Tracy was loved by many aunts and uncles and […]

Martin “Marty” George Gack III, 45, of Nederland, passed away Monday, August 25, 2025. He was born on August, 14, 1980, in Seattle, Washington, to Tymbre Janine Rienstra Gack and Martin George Gack, Jr. His family returned to Nederland where he was raised. He graduated from Nederland High School where he played football. After graduation he served in the U.S. Navy. Marty Loved sports, music, and movies. He was a fan of the Texas Rangers and liked going to Rangers games with his dad “Big Marty” and friend, Jason Delaney. He enjoyed watching college football on Saturdays as well as NFL Sundays. He enjoyed spending time at the beach with his mother in the summer, as well as family get togethers for holidays and birthdays. Marty had a love for music, both rock and country. He was really proud of many colorful tattoos. Survivors include his mother, Tymbre Gack, of […]

Beverly Joyce Parr, 73, of Nederland, peacefully passed away on Sunday, August 24, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. She was born September 19, 1951, in Longview, to Ruby Claudine Sheppard and Calvin Leon Burton. After graduating from Nederland High School in 1969, Beverly moved to Houston, where she began her career with Exxon. It was in the spring of 1971 that she met the love of her life, Robert “Bobby” Dale Parr, when they were both applying for their ministerial credentials. As Beverly often said, “When you know, you know!” They were married on August 29, 1971, at First Assembly of God in Rosenberg. For the next 54 years, Beverly and Bobby dedicated their lives to ministry, working together to lead people to Jesus and share God’s love. They faithfully pastored congregations for many years before retiring to continue their service in other ways. Beverly built an impressive career […]

Ruby Arlene Fuselier, 60, of Groves, Texas died Thursday, August 21, 2025.  She was born October 17, 1964, in Griffen, Georgia to Anna Faye Baugh, one of ten children.  Ruby was a wonderful Mom, grandmother, sister, aunt, and wife. Ruby had compassion and love for everyone she came in contact with.  She was generous and giving and always had a desire to help people.  She was willing to jump in and get to work, helping in whatever way she could.  She was also faithful and determined and put others above herself.  She truly knew how to love. She is survived by her daughter, Magan Inman and her husband, Jamie Inman; her son, Trae Fuselier and his wife, Morgan Fuselier, and their daughters, Andie and Stevie; her grandson, Samuel Garcia, and Wyatt Cailler; and Granddaughter, Gracie.  She is also survived by her siblings, Ruth Wonders, Cathy Plimpton, and Howard Baugh.  She […]

John Jay Teller, Sr., born September 14, 1965, in Groves, Texas passed away August 17, 2025, at the age of 59. John lived a life defined by service, strength, and love for his family. He was a proud father, a dedicated soldier, a skilled shop manager, and a passionate trapper who valued hard work and resilience. Those who knew him will remember his strong spirit, his sense of humor, and the way he always made time for the people he loved. He is survived by his children: John Teller, Jr., Kathryn Alvarez, Hope Dozier, Jacob Lemire, Joseph Teller, and John Wayne Richard, as well as numerous beloved grandchildren who brought him endless pride and joy. A funeral service will be held on Monday, August 25, 2025, at Broussard’s Mortuary in Nederland, Texas. The Gathering will begin at 3:00 p.m., with the service following at 4:00 p.m. John will be laid to […]

Deborah Tate Pigg, 74, of Fannett, died Friday, August 15, 2025. She was born on August, 21, 1950, in Port Arthur, to Helen Johnson and Leroy Tate. Survivors include her daughters, Brandi Borne and her husband, Keith Borne, of Groves and Chelsea Meaux and her husband, Aaron Meaux, of Port Neches; son, James Northcutt; honorary children, Rocky Stiles, of Fannett, Jarrett Quarles, and Rachel Winzer, of Winnie; brothers, Leroy Tate, Jr. and Timothy Tate; sister-in-law, Vicky Kloecker; step-brother, Brent Broussard; sixteen grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her husband, Gary Pigg; parents; son, John Austin Pigg; and sister, Barbara Thibodeaux. A gathering of Mrs. Pigg’s family and friends will begin at 1:00 p.m., with her memorial service to follow, Sunday, August 24, 2025, at Broussard’s, 505 North 12th Street, Nederland. Her cremation arrangements will be handled through Broussard’s Crematorium.

Michelle Louise Askew, 69, of Nederland, died Wednesday, August 13, 2025. She was born on December 12, 1955, in London, England, to Clara Louise Olson and Michael Paul Arena. Survivors include her husband, Richard Askew; daughter, Jennifer Balsamo and her husband, Jeremy; grandson, Aiden Balsamo; and brothers, Mike Arena and his wife, Kathy and Dave Arena and his partner, Bruce Ryrie. She is preceded in death by her parents. A gathering of Mrs. Askew’s family and friends will begin at 5:00 p.m., until 7:00 p.m., Sunday, August 17, 2025, at First Baptist Church Nederland, 1911 Nederland Avenue, Nederland. Her funeral will be 10:00 a.m., Monday, August 18, 2025, at First Baptist Church Nederland, under the direction of Broussard’s, 505 North 12th Street, Nederland. Her interment will follow at Memory Gardens of Jefferson County, Nederland.

Julie Benoit, 50, of Port Arthur, passed away peacefully at her Granny’s house on Wednesday, August 13, 2025. She was born on March 26, 1975, in Groves, to Pamela Kay Herring and Oren Lee Miguez. We take comfort in knowing that the very next day she was reunited with her brother, Justin Jackson, celebrating his birthday in heaven with their beloved grandparents, Tony and Mattie Herring, by her side. For several years, Julie bravely battled PAH, and in her final months she also endured the challenges of chemotherapy. During this time, she received loving care from her mother, Pamela LeBlanc, who made sure Julie was fed and comforted on the days she could not manage on her own. That care was a lasting expression of a mother’s love, and Julie carried it with her on her final journey. Earlier this year, Julie was blessed to celebrate her 50th birthday in […]

Lurlene Morrison Alexander, 81, of Beaumont died Tuesday August 12, 2025.  She was born on February 28, 1944, in Nederland, to Verdie Berlie Smith Morrison and Starlin Green Morrison. Lurlene grew up in Nederland and was a long time resident of Beaumont.  She was a member of Calvary Baptist Church and co-owner of Smith Belting & Electric Supply Company in Beaumont. Lurlene loved cooking, crafting, sewing, entertaining and gospel music.  She was a legendary cook and when she wasn’t cooking, she was always willing to throw a party, shower, wedding or reception.  She was always first to lend a hand with any function for family and friends.  She was a lover of gospel music.  Her and her husband Travis would travel with family and friends around east Texas listening to southern gospel music which she enjoyed immensely.  She never met a stranger and was genuinely interested in people.  She would […]

Shirley Mae Palermo Rice, 85, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family. A loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, Shirley’s life was centered on faith, family, and caring for others. Born to Joe and Jennie Pecorino Palermo, she was proud of her Italian heritage. A devout Catholic, she prayed her rosary every day without fail and prayed for her family daily. Like many Italian mothers, she was fiercely protective of those she loved and did everything in her power to shield her children from harm. An excellent cook, Shirley made it her mission to ensure her family was well-fed—often calling her grown children to ask not only if they had eaten, but what they had eaten. She also loved going to the casino with her family, where she would practically skip through the doors, play the slot machines for hours, and light up with joy at the thought […]