Shirley McLaren

SAUGERTIES - Shirley McLaren, 89, passed away peacefully on March 3, 2025, in Rhinebeck, NY. Born on July 16, 1935, in Camden, NJ, she was the cherished daughter of the late Rocco and Anna Maiese Pizzutillo. Shirley's life was a testament to her unwavering dedication to her family, her career, and her community.

Predeceased by her beloved husband, Roy, in 2021, and her dear sisters, Mary and Rose Pizzutillo, Shirley's legacy continues through her devoted children, Michael (Catherine) of Delmar, Kevin (Victoria) of Ulster Park, and Heather (Patrick) Rafferty of Saratoga Springs. She was the proud grandmother to six grandchildren, Alexander, Samuel, Matthew, Adam, Josh, and Jessica, who will carry forward her spirit of generosity and kindness.

A lifelong learner and educator, Shirley's passion for knowledge led her to pursue a career in education. She graduated with a Master's Degree from SUNY New Paltz and dedicated over thirty years of service to Ulster BOCES. Her commitment to literacy and learning extended beyond the classroom as she served as the Literacy Coordinator for Ulster County and the past chairperson of the Mid Hudson Partnership of the Hudson Valley.  In 2007, Shirley was named Outstanding Teacher from the NY Assoc. of Continuing and Community Education

Shirley's involvement in her community was extensive and impactful. As chairperson for the Saugerties H.S. Booster Club, she demonstrated her support for youth and education by volunteering to run the scoreboard for many SAA basketball games. Her leadership extended to the Saugerties Library, where she served as a board member, and her civic engagement was evident through her active membership in the Saugerties Girls Community Club, The Lions Club, and the Wednesday Morning Early Birds Bowling Group.

Shirley's interests were as diverse as they were engaging. She was the embodiment of community spirit and enjoyed bringing people together, whether it was for family gatherings, summers at the lake, or travels to new and exciting places. Her zest for life and the joy she found in the company of others were truly infectious.
 

Her Funeral Service will be held 10 AM Friday at the Seamon-Wilsey Funeral Home Inc. Friends may visit from 2-4 and 7-9 PM Thursday. Further obituary information and expressions of condolence may be shared with the family at SeamonWilseyFuneralHome.com 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Shirley McLaren, please visit our floral store.