Obituary of Shirley Ann Whitney

Shirley Ann (Miller)Whitney After a long illness, Shirley Ann Whitney, 65, entered into eternal rest on February 1, 2012, at her residence surrounded by her immediate and extended family members. Born in 1947 at Brady Hospital in Albany, she was the daughter of the late Paul Miller and Dolores Costello. Shirley lived in Albany during her earlier years before settling in Lansingburgh through her adult life. She was a 1964 graduate of Hackett High School in Albany. During her life, Shirley was employed by Stanley's Department Store in Troy and by Barkley's Home Products in Cohoes. For more than 20 years, she was employed by the City of Troy, first as a crossing guard and more recently, as a Recreation Attendant at the Knickerbocker Skating Arena. Shirley enjoyed camping with her family, Wednesday "Girls Night" at the home of her friends, and taking bus trips to Turning Stone and Foxwoods Casinos to play bingo. Shirley is survived by her sister, Dolores Miller Sanders; her daughter, Theresa M. Whitney; her son, David J. Whitney; four granddaughters, Taylor, Jordyn, Juliahanna, and Eva; a grandson, Joel; a niece, Carolyn Neary (Sean); and three nephews, Paul, William and Timothy Miller; and dear friend, Matthew Coaltes. She is predeceased by her parents and a brother, Fraser W. Miller. She is also survived by her lifelong friend and caregiver, Grace Graziane, Grace's husband, Jim; Stacey, Keith (Andrea), Kyla (Jeff) and the late Jimmy Graziane, and Tara (Stephen) McGovern; and several nieces and nephews. As per Shirley's wishes, her remains will be cremated and interred at Elmwood Hill Cemetery in Troy with a family graveside service. A celebration of her life will be held sometime during the spring, date and time pending. Anyone wishing to attend this celebration may contact Shirley's family members for further details. Shirley's family would also like to offer their heartfelt thanks to Hospice for all their help during Shirley's illness as well as their continued support after her passing. Those who wish may make a donation in memory of Shirley to The Community Hospice of Rensselaer County, 295 Valley View Blvd., Rensselaer, NY 12144.