Shirley A. Phillips 1938-2025

Shirley was born April 14, 1938, in Youngstown, a daughter of Ann Sanko. She was a 1958 graduate of South High School.

Shirley worked at Mahoning Bank and the Hubbard Public Library, but it was at the library where she truly thrived, spending over 10 years engaging in fun, learning and sharing moments of joy with her colleagues. They became like family, laughing together and creating memories that will forever warm their hearts.

A devoted member of St. Patrick Roman Catholic Church, Shirley adored her faith. She could always be found in the same section of the church, attending 4 p.m. Mass every Saturday. Her dedication extended beyond the pews, as she volunteered at the church festival for many years, bringing her infectious spirit to the parish community.

As an amazing mother, we remember the specially made lunches, our coats laid on top of the registers so they were toasty warm when we put them on before school, her attending our school and sporting events, and those special 5 p.m. sharp dinners, with no help expected.

Shirley cherished her five grandchildren. She could often be found cheering away at many sporting events, beaming with pride at their every accomplishment. She was looked up to by her many nieces, nephews and cousins. She was always the one to call for sound advice and her pecan tart recipe, and don’t forget her famous stuffed cabbage.

She had a wicked sense of humor, making you cry with laughter. She enjoyed traveling with her family on trips to NYC, the Hamptons and Florida.

She also loved her town. She could always be found on her front porch eyeing the many comings and goings in Hubbard. Her passing leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew her, but her love, kindness and humor will continue to live on in the many lives she touched. She was a treasured friend, an irreplaceable mother and a loving grandmother. Shirley’s legacy of love and laughter will forever remain in our hearts.

Shirley will be fondly remembered and sadly missed by her family: her husband, James R. Phillips, whom she married Sept. 26, 1964, and recently celebrated 60 years of marriage; her daughters, Lisa (Michael) Cerrato of Dublin and Karen (Brian) DelSignore of Poland; and five grandchildren, Brienna Cerrato (Aaron Mickens) of Columbus, Jordan Cerrato (Genesis) of Denver, Colorado, Kamerin Cerrato of Miami, Florida, Blake DelSignore of Poland and Alec DelSignore of Poland; and many loved cousins and family members.

Her mother preceded her in death.

There will be calling hours 5 to 7 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 26, 2025, at Stewart-Kyle Funeral Home.

There will be a Mass of Christian Burial 11 a.m. Monday, Jan. 27, 2025, with the Very Rev. Michael D. Balash officiating, at St. Patrick Roman Catholic Church, with calling hours before the Mass from 10 to 11 a.m.

Shirley will be laid to rest in Calvary Cemetery in Youngstown.

Memorial donations can be made to Southern Care Hospice, whose staff provided caring and compassionate support.

Along with her loving husband, we are deeply grateful to Frances DelSignore, who was by Shirley’s side every day, combing her hair, sharing laughter and providing love and support. We also thank Cassie, her hospice nurse, for her unwavering love, as well as Dr. Slemons and his office for their care throughout the years. The family is grateful for Diane and Eric Hetson, and Donna and Bill Mehalco, who provided years of support to Shirley and Jim with frequent visits, help with yard work and home-cooked meals.

Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the care of Stewart-Kyle Funeral Home.

Family and friends are invited to visit www.stewart-kyle.com to share memories and condolences.

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