Shirley Mae McGee Garren, 94, formerly of Wethersfield, CT, died peacefully at Seabury Retirement Community in Bloomfield, CT on March 13, 2023.

She was born on April 29, 1928 to Roland and Olivia McGee (née Eley) in Richmond, VA. Shirley lived in her beloved Richmond until 1949, when she married William Henry Garren, also a Richmond native. Her husband’s work with Travelers Insurance brought them to Connecticut and their chosen community of Wethersfield, where they lived happily for many years and raised their family.

Devoted to her faith, Shirley majored in Christian Education and served as the Superintendent of the Sunday School program at First Presbyterian Church. Later in life, she would work for Hartford Hospital in the Public Relations Office.

Among the things Shirley enjoyed most were painting and singing, both of which she had great gifts for. She also had a special love for animals, having a number of dear pets in her lifetime, including her Golden Retriever, Bess and cat, Angel.

Shirley was an inspiration to everyone she met. She touched the lives of many with her kindness and sweetness. Diagnosed with MS when she was 60, her spirit never weakened or wavered, but only grew stronger.

She is predeceased by her husband, William and her son, Stephen Garren. She is survived by her daughter, Laurie Markarian of Danvers, MA and her significant other, Chuck Roberts, as well as her granddaughter, Katie Markarian and her husband, Sam Sherwood of Ipswich, MA.

A memorial service will be held at the Seabury Retirement Community Chapel on Monday, April 3, 2023 at 11a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to one of her favorite causes, Heifer International, an organization that works to end hunger and poverty by supporting local agriculture around the world. Online condolences may be made at www.SheehanHilbornBreen.com