Shirley A. (Barbuto) Keddy, 90, of Eddy Pond West, Auburn and formerly of Worcester died Saturday, May 16th surrounded by her loving family. She leaves two sons, W. Peter Keddy and his wife, Patricia of Cheshire, CT, Wayne A. Keddy and his significant other, Renee Wyman-Scott of Auburn, ME; three daughters, Sandra L. Cuthbertson of Oklahoma City, OK, Lori J. Keddy and her significant other, J Michael Wyman, and Bonnie S. Mitchell all of Worcester; 15 grandchildren, several great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by a son, Michael L. Keddy and two sisters, Janice Wallwork and Norma Durgin.
Her life was one defined by devotion to her family, service to her community, and a deep appreciation for the beauty found in everyday moments. Born in Waltham, the daughter of Louis and Jean (Ohrstrom) Barbuto, she graduated from Newton North High School and continued her education later in life at Becker College and Worcester State College, where she maintained a high GPA. Her love of learning and strong work ethic would remain evident throughout her life.
Shirley was a member of First Baptist Church, where she generously gave her time as an usher for many years. Professionally, she dedicated much of her career to Temple Emanuel and the Town of West Boylston, serving as a bookkeeper with care, diligence, and pride in her work.
She embraced life with curiosity and enthusiasm, especially when it came to travel. Shirley treasured opportunities to visit family and explore new places, creating lasting memories through trips to Europe, San Francisco, Hawaii, Seattle, and many other destinations. At home, she found joy in gardening, cultivating beautiful gardens that often caused passersby to stop and admire their beauty and care.
Shirley appreciated the arts in many forms. She enjoyed a wide range of music, from opera to classic country, loved attending the theatre, and at one time volunteered with Foothills Theatre. She was also an avid reader who could often be found enjoying a good book.
Above all else, Shirley cherished her family. She especially loved hosting holiday gatherings, pouring her heart into every detail to create meaningful traditions and treasured memories for those she loved. While she accomplished much throughout her life, Shirley considered her family to be her greatest accomplishment and her truest passion. Her warmth, kindness, and unwavering love will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her.
The family wishes to thank the staff of Brookdale Eddy Pond West, Worcester Home Care and Autumn Hospice for their care and compassion in caring for Shirley.
Funeral services will be private. Burial will be in Hope Cemetery, 119 Webster Street, Worcester. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Alzheimer’s Association, 320 Nevada Street, Suite 201, Newton, MA 02460.