Shirley Jean Hoffman

CHESTER, VIRGINIA- It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that the family of Shirley Jean (Brazee) Hoffman, age 92, of Chester, Virginia, formerly of Waterbury, shares the news of her peaceful passing on Saturday, January 10, 2026, surrounded by her loving family in the comfort of her home. She was called Home to the Lord after living a long and meaningful life of 92 years filled with love and adventure. She was the widow of Eugene J. Hoffman.

Shirley was born in Burlington, Vermont on January 6, 1934, the beloved daughter of the Late John L. Sr. and Mamie (Machia) Brazee. As the eldest of nine children, she carried the spirit of family with her throughout her life. She graduated from Watertown High School and dedicated 45 years of her life at the Siemon Company as an operator.

Shirley had an adventurous spirit, traveling to many places, including India at the remarkable age of 88. She enjoyed shopping and above all, spending quality time with her large and growing family. One of her fondest memories was dancing with her late husband, Gene, at the Country and Western Hall in Terryville.

She will be dearly missed, but her spirit will forever live in the hearts of all who have had the privilege to know and love her.

Left to cherish and honor her memory are her five children; Jerry Zambiella and his late wife, Susan of Davenport, FL, Patti Ciarleglio and her husband Curt of Waterbury, Dave Zambiella and his late wife Debbie of Prospect, Kellie Sheeks of Waterbury and Mike Hoffman and his wife Candie of Chester, VA, as well as her bonus children; Doug Hoffman and his wife Carol of Lake Placid, NY, Sandie and Gene Jr. Hoffman. She also leaves behind 25 grandchildren, 63 great- grandchildren, 6 great great grandchildren, many nieces, nephews, and other extended family members and friends. She was predeceased by her loving husband, Eugene Hoffman of 35 years, her 8 siblings and by her bonus children; Dana Hoffman and Duane Hoffman.

Funeral services for Mrs. Hoffman will be held on Saturday, January 24, 2026 at 10:30 a.m. at Casey- O’Neill Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 742 Main Street, Oakville, CT 06779. Burial will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Watertown. Relatives and friends are invited to pay their respects and visit with Shirley’s family on Saturday morning from 9:30 until the service commences at 10:30 a.m. at the funeral home. Loving kindness is always welcome, and it only takes a moment to send a message of condolence, words of comfort, or share a memory with the family and friends of someone important to you. Please visit the funeral home's tribute page at www.caseyfunerals.com to do so. To send a memorial gift to the family, please visit the funeral home website at www.caseyfunerals.com.