Shirley Plowucha

1951 - 2023

Shirley (MacDonald) Plowucha

Easthampton, MA - Shirley A. (MacDonald) Plowucha, known affectionately as Ma or Shirl to many, formerly of Easthampton passed unexpectedly on Friday, August 18, 2023, at her home. Shirley was born on November 14, 1951, in Northampton, MA, the daughter of the late Leo J. and Alice R. (Mandeville) MacDonald. Growing up in Florence, MA, she was a graduate of Northampton High School. A long-time resident of Easthampton, she was employed at Nonotuck Resource Associates for over 35 years growing into the role of Chief Financial Officer during that time. She retired to care for her husband, John S. Plowucha, shortly before his death in February of 2020, just shy of their 48th wedding anniversary.

Shirley was an active member of the Easthampton Rod and Gun Club for many years volunteering for fishing derbies, including the Junior Trout Fishing Derby, and participating in their pitch club. Despite living most of her life in MA, she moved to Delmar, NY in 2020 following her husband's death. After never living on her own, she had her own apartment for one year before moving in with her daughter. She enjoyed being outdoors whether it was fishing, doing yard work, or gardening. Shirley also loved playing cards, talking to all the neighborhood dogs, and visiting with family and friends. No one loved babies and animals more than her. She also volunteered for a short time at the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society in Menands, NY.

She is survived by a daughter Beverly Plowucha of Delmar, NY with whom she lived; her son Michael Plowucha of Easthampton; her daughter Tammie (Plowucha) Kotowski and her husband Joseph of Ware; three grandchildren (Tiffany Lavalle, Frederick Kotowski, and Jillena Plowucha); and one great grandchild. She is also survived by her sister Pauline (MacDonald) Delisle of Fort Myers, FL; brother Leo (Buzzy) MacDonald of Manassas, VA; and brother Ed MacDonald of Granby, MA and their families. In addition to family, she leaves behind many friends and colleagues that have been touched by her love and generosity.

Shirley was predeceased by her husband John; her parents Leo and Alice; siblings Gordon (Butch), Beverly, and Janet; and granddaughter Vanessa.

Visiting hours will be Saturday, Sept 9, 2023, in the Mitchell Funeral Home, 15 Park Street, Easthampton from 1pm to 3pm followed by a service at 3pm. Burial will be at the convenience of the family. Gifts in Shirley's memory may be given to the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society in Menands, NY or to the Easthampton Rod and Gun Club for the Junior Trout Fishing Derby in Easthampton, MA.

www.mitchellcofuneralhome.com