Shirley Elise Alrich

Shirley Elise Alrich, 90, died on June 9th at Freedom Village, West Brandywine. Born in New York, NY she attended area schools, moving to Philadelphia after her marriage to William Morris Alrich, her husband for 55 years. He pre-deceased her in 2004. With her husband she hosted foreign students attending the University of Pennsylvania then served on the Women's Counsel of the International House of Philadelphia. Shirley was a counselor for the Child Study Institute of Bryn Mawr College and later as a counselor in the special education department of the Lower Merion School District. She was an active member of Wayne Presbyterian Church for more than 50 years, serving as a Deacon and teacher. After retirement she served on the Board of the Church's City Lights program, a partnership with the Church and the Southwest Philadelphia City Lights Program and the League of Women Voters of Chester County. She felt that her greatest satisfaction came from working with people and especially children. Her hobbies included reading groups, tennis, travel, and attending Philadelphia Orchestra concerts. She is survived by three children, Susan Alrich Stair, Thomas and Bill Alrich, and 6 grandchildren. Shirley's Life Celebration Service will be held at Wayne Presbyterian Church, 11 AM, July 19th, 125 East Lancaster Ave., Wayne, Pa. 19087. Memorials may be made in Shirley's name to the City Lights Program of Wayne Presbyterian Church. Arrangements are being handled by Wentz Funeral Home, Coatesville 610-384-0318 To send online condolences, please visit www.wentzfuneralhome.com