Obituary of Shirley B. Livingston

Shirley Livingston

October 14, 1928 –June 21, 2023

Shirley Bardeen Livingston left to be with the Lord on Wednesday, June 21, 2023 at the age of 94. She was predeceased by her husband, Phil, and sisters, Helene, Jean, Lois, and Mary Lou, and grandson, Mark Ricotta Jr. She is survived by her sister Nancy, children, Ann Livingston-Gangi, Susan (Steve) Rigoni, Philip (Patty) Livingston, Pamela (Mark) Ricotta, and David (Michelle) Livingston, seven grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren, several nieces and nephews.

Shirley was the eldest of six daughters born to Howard and Kathryn Bardeen of Hornell, NY. She remembered the Great Depression and WWII, and admired their courage and perseverance during those difficult times. She graduated from Canisteo Central School in 1945 and Geneseo State Teachers College in 1949. It was there she met Phil, married December 31st, 1949 and, together raised their five children.

She taught intermediate grades in both Dansville and York Central Schools. Her hobbies included gardening, both vegetable and flowers, counted cross stitch needlework, reading (especially American History and biographies), classical music (especially piano concertos), traveling with Phil, and loved her church. She was grateful to God that she, along with Bill, Bob, Karen, Dorothy, Charlie, Doug and others, started the 1st annual 150 Family Yard Sale in 1995, and for their continued dedication.

Shirley was an inspiration to others as a mother, teacher, and friend, and she always strove to do what was right by God. Her kindness, intelligence, and forthrightness will be missed by those who knew her best.

No prior calling hours. Her Funeral Service will be held on Tuesday, June 27, 2023 at 11 AM at the Geneseo United Methodist Church with Rev. Beth Malone officiating. Burial will be in Lakeview Cemetery in Groveland.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Geneseo United Methodist Church, 4520 Genesee St. (Route 63), Geneseo, NY 14454.