Shirley Henrietta Wanemaker

1938 - 2025

Shirley Henrietta Wanemaker, 86, of Sterling, VA passed away on October 2, 2025.

She is survived by her daughter, Maryann Rizzo (nee Wanemaker), grandson, Dan Rizzo (Anamaria), great-granddaughter Talia Rizzo and brother-in-law, Joseph Dietl (Linda). She is preceded in death by her husband, Bill Wanemaker, daughter, Diane Wanemaker, and parents, Joseph and Henrietta Dietl.

Shirley was born on November 9, 1938, in Buffalo, NY.  She was married to her high school sweetheart and best friend Bill for 65 years and she adored her daughters Maryann and Diane, grandson Dan, daughter-in-law Anamaria and great-granddaughter Talia. Shirley enjoyed gardening, sewing and knitting, and watching auto racing and football.  She loved animals, especially dogs.  She had several dogs throughout her life.  Spook (rescue mixed breed) and Tara (Doberman pincher) were her favorite fury friends.  Shirley also enjoyed traveling with Maryann on bus & land tours to many destinations throughout the US.  Her favorite destination was Mount Rushmore.

Shirley lived in the Buffalo, NY area for most of her life as a homemaker.  She & Bill moved to Mooresville, North Carolina in 2000 when Bill retired from GM. Together they built and created their dream home, yard, and gardens which was her pride and joy. She could not pass a garden shop without buying something.  

In 2023, Shirley moved to Sterling, Virginia with her daughter Maryann to live closer to Dan and his family. While in Virginia, she made many friends in her condo building and her favorite activities were talking to Talia and going to the community’s Whiskey Club.  

Shirley will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who knew her.  Please note that Shirley had requested that no viewing or service be held.