Shirley M. Coe's Obituary
Shirley M. Coe passed away peacefully on April 12, 2025, at the age of 77 in Lewes, Delaware. She was born on August 4, 1947, in Chester, Pennsylvania, to her late parents, Ford Allen and Lillian Beatrice (Holden) Thomas. Shirley will be remembered for her warmth, generosity, and the meaningful connections she built throughout her life.
She dedicated many years to her career as an administrator with Blue Cross, where her professionalism and care made a lasting impression on both colleagues and clients. Outside of work, Shirley enjoyed gardening and sewing—hobbies that reflected her love of creating and nurturing.
Above all, Shirley’s greatest joy came from her family. She is survived by her son, David M. Coe (Joanna) of Turnersville, NJ, and her daughter, Susan Beth Ciociola (Scott) of Dagsboro, DE. She was a proud grandmother to Scott and Samantha Ciociola and Gabriel Coe. She is also survived by her brother, Ford "Bub" Allen Thomas Jr., and sister, Joyce Ann Thomas.
In addition to her parents, Shirley was predeceased by her husband, David F. Coe in 2010; her brother, Earl Jackson Thomas; and her sisters, Carol Lynn Thomas and Alice Heald.
Shirley will be remembered as a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. Her kindness and steady presence will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.
A chapel committal service will be held on Thursday, April 24, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 26669 Patriots Way, Millsboro, DE.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation at www.komen.org in Shirley’s memory.
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