Shirley M. Mahoney

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.