Shirley M. Furkey, 84, of Westfield passed on Wednesday, July 26, 2017 surrounded by her family. She was the eldest daughter born to Laurance and Mary Bruce on August 9, 1932. Shirley was often found crafting or sewing and spent many years working behind the desk at Betty Champion’s Dance Studio where she will always be known for being a very talented seamstress. She also loved working outside, tending to her tomato plants, and spending time with her family and friends. Shirley is predeceased by her husband, Douglass Furkey and sister, Sandra Bruce. She is survived by her brother, John Bruce and his wife, Martha, of Westfield. She leaves behind her children Laurie Furkey, Donna Gavioli-her husband Jeff, Douglass Furkey- his wife Tara, as well as her nephews John Bruce-his wife Beth Sager, and Laurance Bruce. Shirley enjoyed watching her grandchildren grow up: Jeffrey Gavioli- his wife Ashley, Elizabeth Gavioli, Shelby Gray-her fiancé Brandon, and Sabrina Gray. Calling hours will be at Firtion Adams Funeral Home, 76 Broad Street, Westfield, MA on Tuesday, August 1, 2017 from 8:30-10:00 am. A short service will follow with a precession to Mass Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Agawam, MA. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Wreaths Across America, www.wreathsacrossamerica.org; please specify Agawam.
