Shirley Ann Bauknecht

Shirley Ann Bauknecht, 87, passed away peacefully in her Cullowhee home on May 12, 2025. She was born on June 5, 1937, in Philadelphia, PA to the late John and Pearl (Boston) Wright. Shirley was married 56 years to Frederick G. Bauknecht until his passing in 2013. She was also preceded in death by her sister, Virginia Hause. 

Shirley raised two sons while living in Philadelphia. She and her husband moved to Fort Lauderdale, Florida to be with their two sons where they opened and operated a family owned watersports business before moving to North Carolina. Shirley lived her life for her family. She will be remembered for many family vacations, pool parties and Sunday dinners. Always loving and caring she kept her family close to her heart and together. 

Shirley’s family consisted of her two sons, Frederick J. (Sherry) and John K. (Carol Jean); and grandchildren Jesse (Cayela), Luke (Netta), and Jacob; and great-grandchildren Ellie, Riley and Eldon. 

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, June 21, 2025 at 11:00am at the First Presbyterian Church in Sylva, NC. 

To honor Shirley's profound love for her Pomeranian dogs, the family asks that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Jackson County Humane Society (ARF), P.O. Box 298, Sylva, NC 28779.