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Shirley J. (Malloy) Garay, 94, formerly of Bakerton, ascended to Heaven from Lakewood Ranch, Fla., on Sept. 16, 2026. She was born in St. Benedict to Ethel (Martin) and Patrick Malloy.
In high school, Shirley was a cheerleader, majorette and a drum majorette. She showcased her piano skills at school events and at the Sunset Ballroom in Carrolltown.
After graduation, Shirley worked at First National Bank of Bakerton as an assistant cashier. That led to a banking career including roles as an auditor and secretary of the Western Pennsylvania Group of the National Association of Bank Women. She also worked part time at the Carrolltown Drive-In Theater and Murphy's 5 & 10.
Shirley married William Garay in a candlelight ceremony in 1953. In 1956, they opened a general store, Garay's Store, in Bakerton. The store closed when she retired in 1998. The couple also operated Garay Coal Co.
Shirley was an organist and choir director at Bakerton United Methodist Church for many years. She also substituted as an organist at other local churches. Shirley loved watching the children sing in the Christmas Advent programs. She also sang with the all-female adult Altoona Chorus, a Sweet Adelines International chapter. Her spirituality was the true compass for her life's work and her morals.
Shirley's love of knowledge and adventure led to a lifetime of Bible studies and community classes. She traveled to all 50 states, many countries and four continents. Shirley enjoyed writing poetry, playing Bridge, the Masonic Widows' Guild, attending folk festivals and concerts and visiting family and friends.
Shirley was known for her radiant red hair, beautiful smile, cheerful nature and kindness. She gave boundless love and taught many life lessons, giving her family a strong foundation for life.
Shirley is survived by her children: Janice Funyak (Jim), William (Michele Toskey), Lori Peterson (Brian), Aimee (Dennis Molly) and Craig (Linda Malich); 10 grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.
She was reunited in Heaven with her husband; her parents; and siblings: Margaret, Phyllis, Patrick, Jack and Merle.
Friends will be received from 1 to 3 and 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 25, 2026, at Moriconi Funeral Home Inc., 1303 Bigler Ave., Northern Cambria.
A celebration of life service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 26, 2026, at Hastings Methodist Church, 162 Fourth Ave., Hastings. Committal will be at North Barnesboro Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations to Bakerton United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 208, Elmora, PA 15737.
moriconifuneralhome.com