Shirlie A. Shaffran, 86, of Frelinghuysen Township, NJ, passed away peacefully on September 18, 2025, surrounded by love. Born on January 20, 1939, to Michael and Frieda Sydrock, Shirlie lived a vibrant life filled with joy, music, and deep connections with those around her.
In the 1960s, in the heart of Times Square at a record store, Shirlie met the love of her life, Nicholas Shaffran. It was a serendipitous meeting that blossomed into 55 years of unwavering love and partnership. Their life together was like a song—Shirlie, the melody, and Nicholas, the lyrics. A life of harmony, laughter, and devotion, she was truly his muse.
A longtime member of the Methodist Church in Blairstown, NJ, Shirlie found strength in her faith and joy in her community. She was known for her warmth, her spirited sense of humor, and her incredible cooking—especially her homemade pierogies and her beloved tomato sandwiches.
Shirlie had a lifelong love for music and musicals, often spending evenings enjoying classic shows and songs. She adored watching cooking shows, particularly those of Julia Child, and found inspiration in the kitchen through them.
A passionate Barbie doll collector, Shirlie frequented doll shows and cherished each addition to her growing collection. Her enthusiasm for her hobbies was only matched by her excitement for her high school reunions, where she reconnected with old friends and shared fond memories.
Shirlie lived a full, rich life—a life that touched many through her kindness, creativity, and warmth. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
She is survived by her loving husband Nicholas, cousins Tony Robert Sydrock (Theresa), Elizabeth S. Dunning (David), and Rebecca S. Andruss (William).
A visitation will be held on Thursday, October 2, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM followed by a memorial service at 12:00 PM at Newbaker Funeral Home, Blairstown, NJ. Immediately following will be the burial of ashes which will take place at Pequest Union Cemetery, 36 Cemetery Road, Great Meadows, NJ.