Shirley Kay O’Connell

(June 18, 2008)

Shirley Kay O’Connell of Knoxville, died Wednesday, June 18. She was born in Erie, Penn. on Feb. 18, 1950, daughter of the late Wilbur and Marjorie Patasky Smith. She was a 1968 graduate of McDowell High School. She worked in the medical field for 30 years and was a member of the VFW auxiliary. Shirley enjoyed trout fishing along with her husband Tom, in the Sierra Nevadas and the Smoky Mountains.  Upon retirement, as a Navy wife, Shirley and Tom traveled extensively criss-crossing the United States.

She was 58.

Preceded in death by: her parents; and a daughter, Holly Anne Smith; and a sister, Sandra K. Smith.

Survivors include: her loving husband of 24 years-Thomas W.O’Connell;

Brothers-William Smith and his wife Beatrice of Erie; and Brian Smith and his wife Laurie of Sparks, Nev.;

Shirley was adored and loved by her four nieces and three nephews.

Friends may call at the Burton Westlake Funeral Home 3801 West 26th Street at Powell Avenue on Friday from 2-5 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. and at Lakewood United Methodist Church on Saturday from 10 a.m. until the time of services at 11 a.m. with the Rev. Glory Geib officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society, 2115 West 38th Street, Erie, PA 16508.