Shirley L. Hissem

Shirley Lorraine Hissem, 94, of West Brookfield and Richmond, passed away peacefully on March 6, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.

Born on October 25, 1931, to Georgie McPhee Curtis, Shirley was placed in foster care at the age of four after being brought with her siblings to the House of the Angel Guardian in Roxbury, Massachusetts. That early experience forged the remarkable strength, resilience, and perseverance that defined her throughout her life.

In 1966, she purchased the home that became the stable foundation she had longed for as a child. She worked long hours, often holding two jobs, to provide security for her children. Married to Merle Walton Hissem, who passed away in 1974, Shirley remained a steady and guiding presence for her family. She took great pride in her work as a home health care worker, caring for others with compassion, dignity, and respect. She was proud of her Irish heritage and deeply cherished the friendships and family bonds that enriched her years.

She is survived by her children David (Deb), Catherine (Robert), and William; her son-in-law Earl LaPensee; and her special niece Kimberly Pronto-Chisholm. She was a proud grandmother to Angela, Heather, Ashley (Joseph), Michael (Emily), and John (Joleigh), and a loving great-grandmother to Snake, William, Charlie, and Thomas. She was predeceased by her daughter Debra LaPensee and by her siblings Lila, Marcy, Joy, Joan, Larry, and David.

Shirley measured her life not by wealth or recognition, but by perseverance, kindness, and the love she gave to others.