Shirley Ann (Smith) Potts

Shirley Ann (Smith) Potts, age 88, of Enola, died on Tuesday, October 28, 2025. Shirley was born on Monday, July 5, 1937, in Lancaster to the late Richard Smith and Mary (Guba) Smith. Shirley was the widow of John “Jack” Henry Potts, whom she married on August 22, 1959, and who died on May 9, 2024. In addition to her parents and husband, Shirley is preceded in death by her son: John Drew Potts.

Shirley’s survivors include her daughter: Tammy Gobbel of Wormleysburg; her daughter in law, Lori Potts and 6 grandchildren: Erik Potts, Shane Potts, Brian Potts, Melanie Shank, Dan Birchfield, Mike Birchfield, and four cousins: Patricia Donahue of Lancaster, Suzie Adair of Lancaster, Chris Shultz of Plymouth Meeting, and Brigette Townsend of Raleigh, NC. And also Hansel the cat of ( who knows where).

Shirley graduated from Mc Caskey High in 1955 and Millersville College in 1959 with a Bachelor of Science degree in education. 

Though she had several part-time and full-time jobs, her main career was as her husband's business partner. 

She was also an extraordinary homemaker and mother. She was a wonderful cook. It was important to her that her family share dinner together every night. Her friends and family will remember her as a creative hostess. She made every occasion very special. She loved gatherings that involved friends, family, food, table games and fellowship.

In her community, she served in the Hamden Township Civic Club and she was awarded a Melvin Jones Fellow for her service as a long standing member of the Camp Hill Lions Club.

Shirley was a woman of faith, who loved her Lord. She participated in several Christian social and service groups, taught Bible studies and had ministries in child evangelism.  

Shirley (mom) made a home that was a place of love, shelter, and joy. She lived her faith, believing in the grace and love of our creator.

She was generous, faithful, loving and industrious...

"Honor her for all that her hands have done and let her works bring her praise..." Proverbs 31 v.31

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Shirley's name to Hospice of Central Pennsylvania  and The Salvation Army.

All are welcome to join Shirley’s family at her viewing on Thursday, November 13, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. until time of service at 12:00 p.m. at Buhrig Funeral & Cremation, 37 East Main Street, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055; with Pastor Bryan Sanders officiating. Shirley’s family invites everyone to join them for a time of food and fellowship at Buhrig’s Gathering Place (next to the funeral home) immediately following the service. Entombment will follow the reception in Rolling Green Cemetery in Camp Hill.

Shirley’s family has entrusted her care to Buhrig Funeral & Cremation in Mechanicsburg, (717) 766-3421. Read Shirley’s full obituary, view her memorial video and portrait, offer condolences and sympathy, share stories and memories, upload photographs and videos, light a candle and sign her official guest book by visiting Buhrig.com.