Shirley Grace Orton

Shirley Grace Orton, born on May 9, 1930, in Freeport, Long Island New York, passed away peacefully on February 8, 2024, in Ansel Park Assisted Living in Rocklin, California. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother.

Shirley's journey through life was marked by dedication and hard work. After graduating from Plaza Elementary School in Baldwin, she went on to graduate from Baldwin High School in 1948. Shirley began her career as a secretary at Baldwin National Bank before becoming a devoted homemaker.   Later, she joined General Telephone Company in Southern California as an operator and worked her way up to become an Executive Secretary, dedicating 25 years of service to the company before retiring at age 57.

After retirement her and her 2nd husband James moved to Apple Valley, California.  At this point they enjoyed their lives and traveled quite a bit.  Jim truly was the love of her life.  They were always holding hands even after years of marriage.  

One of Shirley's proudest accomplishments was her beautiful carousel horse that she had painted and decorated. She poured her heart and soul into her artwork, showcasing her talent as a skilled artist. Apart from her professional achievements, Shirley was known for her love of family and the joy she found in spending time with them. She loved putting puzzles together for hours on end and expressed her creativity through painting and drawing.  While living at Ansel Park, she also became quite the cornhole player helping her team win their championship game on one occasion and also winning a trophy for "Best Attitude".

Shirley's warm personality touched the lives of many around her. She was always laughing and smiling, bringing positivity wherever she went. Her compassionate nature shown through in the way she reached out to those who were alone, always making an effort to include them and make them feel valued.

In her leisure time, Shirley enjoyed crocheting, needlepoint, and indulging in her passion for puzzles. These hobbies brought her immense joy and allowed her to showcase her creativity in different forms.

Shirley is survived by her loving children Shirley, Frank, Peggy, Michael, Lisa, ten grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren. Although deeply missed by all who knew her, Shirley has now reunited with her beloved husband James Orton who passed away on June 1, 2021. She also joins her dear sister Loretta Webb who passed away in 2013.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on April 5th at Heritage Oaks Memorial Chapel in Rocklin, California. A reflection of the love and light Shirley brought into the world will be cherished by all those attending as they remember a life well lived and a soul deeply loved.