Shirley R. Taff

Shirley Taff, 96, Devoted Matriarch with a Passion for Learning and Community Shirley Taff, a beloved mother, grandmother, and lifelong learner who blended intellectual curiosity with deep devotion to family and tradition, died at age 96. Born on September 30, 1928, in Long Branch, N.J., Shirley was the daughter of Samuel and Tessie Yoskowitz, Russian immigrants who built a life centered around hard work and family values. She was raised in Asbury Park in a bustling household filled with extended relatives, shaping her lifelong love of connection and community.
Shirley attended Monmouth Junior College, where she met her husband, Morris Taff, a World War II veteran recently returned from service in Europe. They married shortly thereafter and spent more than six decades together, raising three children-Mark, Lisa, and Robert.
Later in life, Shirley returned to higher education, earning a degree in Sociology from Georgian Court College. She continued her studies in Monmouth College's MBA program, driven not by career ambitions but by a genuine love of learning. The couple eventually retired to Palm Springs, Calif., and later Boca Raton, Fla., before returning to New Jersey to be closer to family. Throughout her life, Shirley remained deeply engaged in Jewish life, serving actively in synagogue Sisterhoods and on synagogue boards. She was known for her sharp intellect, strong opinions, impeccable cooking, and unfailing devotion to her family. She loved travel, bridge, public television, and thoughtful conversation. To her children and grandchildren, she was a force-fiercely loving, endlessly wise, and always present. In addition to her children, Shirley is survived by several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her legacy lives on in the lives she shaped, the lessons she taught, and the love she gave so free. A Funeral service will be held on Thursday, July 10, 2025 11:00am at Congregation B'nai Israel 1488 Old Freehold Road, Toms River, NJ, Burial will follow at the B'nai Israel Memorial Park Cemetery, 1224 W Whitty Rd, Toms River, NJ. To send condolences please visit: carmonabolenfh.com Services are under the direction of the Carmona-Bolen Home for Funerals 412 Main Street, Toms River, NJ 08753 To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Shirley, please visit our floral store.