Shirley G. Tashjian

Shirley G. Tashjian1937-2015East Longmeadow- Shirley G. (Samay) Tashjian, 77, of East Longmeadow, passed away Saturday, July 25, 2015 at the Jewish Nursing Home. Born in Springfield on September 27, 1937 she was a daughter of the late Frank R. and Marie (Kurby) Samay. Shirley was an active member of St. Gregory's Armenian Church in Indian Orchard and enjoyed cooking for their events. She also enjoyed sewing, crafts, gardening, and collecting and making her own teddy bears.  Shirley loved taking care of people, especially children, and always treated them like they were her own. She leaves behind her loving husband of 57 years, Armen Tashjian; her brothers, Rafeal, Robert and his wife Josephine, and Russell Samay; her sister Ann Guidi; her cousin Joe Laino who took care of her over the last year; her neighbors Kent and Sharon Dandy; her "grandson" Colin Dandy; many nieces and nephews; great nieces and nephews; a great-great niece; and many friends. Shirley was predeceased by her brother Richard and her sister Dorthia. Shirley's family would like to send a special thanks to the Jewish Nursing Home for their friendship and care over the last several months. Calling hours will be held on Thursday, July 30, 2015 from 9:30am-11:00am in St. Gregory's Armenian Church, 135 Goodwin St, Indian Orchard followed by a mass at 11am. Burial will take place in Hillcrest Park Cemetery. Donations may be made to St. Gregory's Armenian Church, 135 Goodwin St, Indian Orchard 01151. For further information please visit ratellfuneralhome.com.Ratell Funeral Home(413) 543-3836