Shirley Mae (Hennessey) Watrous

WORCESTER - Shirley Mae (Hennessey) Watrous passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, surrounded by her loving family and the compassionate staff at Christopher House in Worcester. She was 96. Born and raised in Worcester, Shirley was the daughter of Everett and Mae (Riedl) Hennessey and remained a lifelong resident of the city she cherished. She now joins her beloved husband of 34 years, Richard J. Watrous, who passed away in 1986.

She will be lovingly remembered by her children, Nancy M. Shaw and her husband, Dr. John Shaw of Holden; Patricia A. Bowen and her husband, Daniel of Cape Elizabeth, Maine; Janice M. Engdahl and her husband, John of Paxton; Richard F. Watrous and his wife, Nancy of Worcester; and Alan J. Watrous of Worcester; her sister, Ann Howe of Worcester; 18 grandchildren, Lynda, Jason, Alison, Sheri, Kimberly, Kristy, Bethany, Katie, Melissa, Megan, Brian, Vanessa, Phylicia, Christina, James, Alan, Tyla, and John; 32 great-grandchildren; and 3 great-great-grandchildren; along with many nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents and husband, she was predeceased by her brother, Everett Hennessey.

Shirley was a graduate of South High School and Salter's Secretarial School, both in Worcester. She began her career at Wyman-Gordon Co. before devoting herself to raising her family, a role she embraced wholeheartedly.

A devout Catholic, Shirley placed deep value on parochial education and took great pride in sending her children to Catholic schools. A lifelong member of Our Lady of the Angels Church in Worcester, her faith was a constant source of strength and purpose. She served on the Parent Teacher Organization at Our Lady of the Angels Memorial Elementary School and spent many joyful years volunteering in the school library. She was also a longtime member of the Guild of Our Lady of Providence and the Friday Afternoon Club, organizations through which she enjoyed lasting friendships and meaningful community involvement.

Above all, Shirley's greatest joy was her family. She loved nothing more than cheering on her children and grandchildren at their many events. With pride and devotion, she followed them to activities at St. John's High School, Holy Name High School, and Wachusett Regional High School-always their most loyal supporter. As the years went on, she continued to champion her great-grandchildren in everything they pursued, celebrating each milestone with love and enthusiasm.

Shirley's family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate and dedicated staff of Christopher House and JHC Hospice for the exceptional care and kindness shown to her.

Relatives and friends are invited to gather with Shirley's family from 4 to 6 p.m. on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main St., Holden. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, December 17, at Our Lady of the Angels Church, 1222 Main St., Worcester. She will be laid to rest beside her husband at St. John's Cemetery in Worcester. Memorial contributions may be made in Shirley's name to Our Lady of the Angels Church, 1222 Main St., Worcester, MA 01603.