Shirley M. Mahoney
Jaffrey, NH – Shirley M. Mahoney, 82, passed away peacefully on
Saturday, September 20, 2025, with her brother, Tim, at her side,
after a period of failing health.
She was born on October 26, 1942, in Ware, Massachusetts, a daughter
of John A. and Lucia (Koskela) Sirois. Shirley graduated from Conant
High School in 1960, and following her high school years Shirley
enjoyed a bright spotlight as a beauty queen, showcasing not only her
grace but also her vibrant personality.
It was in 1976, when Donald E. Mahoney moved to Rindge that he met his
future bride. They were wed in Peterborough and spent the next 44
years by each other’s side.
Shirley had proudly served alongside her husband, Don, as the manager
of the former Cathedral House Bed and Breakfast, a cherished
establishment located on the grounds of the Cathedral of the Pines in
Rindge from 1994 until 2004. Her commitment to hospitality and her
welcoming spirit made the bed and breakfast a memorable experience for
all who visited.
Shirley was a proud and active member of her community. She had served
as President of the Jaffrey Women’s Auxiliary and held a position as a
State Officer for the American Legion. Her commitment to these
organizations reflected her deep sense of duty and her passionate
belief in giving back to those around her.
In addition to her parents, Shirley was predeceased by her beloved
husband, Don Mahoney, her infant son, John Taylor, her daughter
Bethaney Laney, her sister Lucia, and her former husband Edward
Taylor.
Shirley is survived by her grandchildren, Jonathan, Troy, and Caleb,
and her 2 great-grandsons, and by her step-daughter, Christine Bennett
and her husband Henry of Philipston, MA; her step-grandchildren,
Samuel, Hannah, Abby, John, and James, also by her brothers, Tim
Sirois of Dublin, NH, Otto Sirois of Hartland, VT, Francis Sirois of
Lancaster, NH, Robert Sirois of South Royalton, VT, and Sean Sirois of
Springhill, FL, and by many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Shirley leaves behind a legacy of love, warmth, and belonging that
will continue to echo into the hearts of those fortunate enough to
have known her.
Per her request, there will be no calling hours.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, October 2,
2025 at 11:00am in Saint Patrick Church, 89 Main Street, Jaffrey, NH
03452. Rev. Wilfred Deschamps, Pastor, will be the Celebrant. Shirley
will be buried later with her husband, at the Massachusetts State
Veterans Cemetery in Winchendon, MA.
In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial contributions in
Shirley’s name to the John Humiston American Legion Auxiliary, 20
Webster Street, Jaffrey, NH 03452.
To share memories, photographs and condolences with Shirley’s family,
please visit www.cournoyerfh.com