Shirley Hedden Stoecker, 82, of Madison, died peacefully at home on Dec. 3. She was the wife of 60 years to the late Richard (Dick) Stoecker, who recently predeceased her. She was born on May 25, 1928, daughter of the late Albert H. and Shirley (Skewis) Hedden. Shirley was raised in South Orange, New Jersey, and graduated from Columbia High School. She attended Skidmore College and graduated in 1950 with a BA degree in history.

Shirley married Richard (Dick) Stoecker on March 31, 1951. Just prior to their wedding, Dick received orders to return to active naval duty, and the newlyweds moved to Norfolk, Virginia. While Dick was serving a 22-month tour of duty, Shirley taught high school English in Great Falls, Virginia.

Shirley and Dick moved back to New Jersey and started their family in Verona and Montclair where Shirley was a dedicated mother and wife as well as a volunteer in several community organizations. Following Dick’s career with Pitney Bowes, the family moved to Grand Rapids, Michigan, and in 1962 they were transferred to Connecticut and settled in Madison.

Shirley enjoyed being part of the Madison community and raising her family there. She was active in community programs, including the American Red Cross swim program, blood bank, and volunteer driver program. Shirley was also one of the founding members of Madison Community Services and was the organization’s treasurer for many years. In 2006, Shirley was awarded the Madison Lion’s Club Public Service Award, annually awarded to a Madison citizen who “exemplifies the Lions Club’s spirit of service to the community and whose actions have enhanced the welfare of the people of the town.”

Shirley was fond of playing bridge and enjoyed being part of several bridge clubs. In addition, she and her husband Dick loved entertaining and laughing with friends on Nantucket, at Dartmouth football games, in Florida, or wherever they were.

Shirley shared her enjoyment of football (especially the NY Giants) with her cherished son and grandsons. For many years, Shirley was the knowledgeable and friendly face helping customers at The Kitchen Place.

She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Susan and Jack McGillis of Oakland, California; her son and daughter-in-law, Rich and Pam Stoecker of Branford; two grandsons, Sam and Paul Stoecker of Branford; her brother, Jack Hedden and his wife Sis of Washington, D.C.; five nieces; and a nephew.  She was predeceased by her brother, Albert Hedden, of Santa Fe, New Mexico.

Private services will be held at West Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to Madison Community Services, P.O. Box 148, Madison, CT 06443, or a charity of the donor’s choice. The Swan Funeral Home of Madison is in charge of arrangements. Please visit www.swanfuneralhomemadison.com for a memorial tribute.