Shirley Z. Wasser

DATELINE: WARWICK

Wasser, Shirley Zelda, 95, passed away on Tuesday, October 6, 2020 at HopeHealth Hulitar Hospice Center. She was the beloved wife of the late Raymond Wasser. Born in Providence, a daughter of the late Joseph and Gertrude (Backman) Epstein, she was a longtime resident of Cranston, recently living in West Warwick and Warwick.  Shirley was predeceased by her sister, Ethel Davis, of NY and her brother, Arnold Elliott, of TN, FL and TX.

As an adult, she fulfilled her dream of going to college.  When her youngest, Julie, began school, Shirley was among the first group to attend the URI Extension in Providence.  After eight years of part-time study, she earned her BA in History, URI Class of ‘75.  She was a member of the Cranston Senior Guild. A member of the League of Women Voters, she always made sure her grandchildren were registered to vote. Shirley volunteered with Rhode Island Historical Society Walking Tours in Downtown Providence and also in the library at Temple Beth Torah. For over 50 years, she had a weekly mahjong game with her best friend and maid of honor, Miriam.  She bowled for many years, swam laps at the Grist Mill Pool, went to exercise classes, and at the age of 94, was riding a stationary bike several times a week.

During her 71 years of marriage, Shirley and Raymond traveled extensively to Russia, China, Italy, France, England, Spain, Israel, Egypt and Switzerland, as well as throughout the U.S.  They enjoyed many vacation weeks in Aruba in the winter.

Devoted mother of Howard Wasser and his wife, Harriet, of West Warwick, Helene Pell and her husband, John, of Ashland, MA, Sandra Wallis and her husband, Richard, of Holyoke, MA, and Julie Parker of Hopkinton, MA. Loving grandmother of Jessica Wasser, Melissa Morgan and Michael Pell. Cherished great grandmother of Ariella and Valyn Morgan, and Victoria and Maya Pell.

The family would like to thank the staff of Greenwich Farms Assisted Living in Warwick for the wonderful care provided to Shirley.

Funeral services and shiva will be private. In lieu of flowers, contributions in her memory may be made to your favorite charity.

13 Comments

  1. Sonia Cohen
    Oct 7, 2020

    Our deepest condolences to the Wasser family on the passing of your mother. We met your parents at the Cranston Senior Guild and always enjoyed their company. I will miss the contact I had with Shirley the past few years. May the good times you shared comfort you at this very difficult time.

    Sonia Cohen & Tony D’Abrosca

  2. Jean & Steve Cohen
    Oct 8, 2020

    So sad to hear another member of the greatest generation has left us. Our heartfelt sympathies to Harriet and Howie, your Sisters and all of Shirley’s Family. She will always be remembered as a sweet, nurturing Lady.

  3. Maggie Smith
    Oct 8, 2020

    Am so sorry to learn of Shirley’s passing. So enjoyed her and Ray when they lived at Quaker Valley.

  4. Judy Scavitti Tobin
    Oct 8, 2020

    To the entire Wasser family – My deepest condolences go out to all of you. Shirley was a big part of my growing up in Cranston and I remember that she always had a smile on her face. I wish all of you much comfort and peace in the coming days.

  5. Beverly Paris
    Oct 8, 2020

    My deepest sympathy for the entire Wasser Family. May Shirley’s memory be a blessing. She was a highly respected woman. It was always a pleasure to talk to.
    Beverly Paris

  6. Steven Wasser
    Oct 8, 2020

    As her children know, Shirley was always my favorite. Thru the years we would speak about family. She was the coolest person in our family. I will miss our talks and her fabulous joy of life.

  7. AL SCHLEIFER
    Oct 9, 2020

    MY CONDOLENCES TO THE FAMILY. SHIRLEY WAS A FAVORITE AUNT OF MINE.

  8. Rhonda Brown
    Oct 9, 2020

    Harriet and Howie , so very sorry to read of your mom. What a well rounded, cultured person. May you strength in the days to come

  9. June Bazar
    Oct 10, 2020

    Dear family, I am so sorry for your loss. Shirley and I go back many many years.

  10. Judith Delmonico
    Oct 11, 2020

    Dear Wasser Family,
    Please accept our sincere condolences for your loss.

  11. Bruce Wasser
    Oct 11, 2020

    Howie, Helene, Sandy and Julie,
    Paula & l are very sorry for your loss. Thank you for letting me attend the Covid style funeral. That certainly was not what you would normally want but this IS 2020.
    Your mother’s mint blondies will always keep her in my thoughts.
    Bruce & Paula Wasser

  12. Stephen Parker
    Oct 11, 2020

    I am very saddened to hear of your loss.She was a very nice woman,with a strong voice,and I imagine you will miss her tremendously.Please accept my condolences-Steve Parker

  13. maureen davis
    Oct 21, 2020

    Sandy and Rick, I just learned of your moms passing. I am so sorry for your loss. She was a very sweet lady. I have missed stopping in her room to chat. May your memories bring you comfort.

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