Shirley Ann Kokesh

1938 - 2024

Shirley Ann Kokesh, of Masontown, passed away the morning of Friday, June 7, 2024. She was born October 23, 1938, in Uniontown, a daughter of Stephen Kokes and Ann Popovich Kokesh. Shirley graduated from Masontown High School as the valedictorian of the Class of 1956. She entered California State Teachers College on a scholarship, and graduated with honors in 1960, earning a Bachelors of Science degree in Education. While attending college she was a member of the Delta Phi Honorary Educational Fraternity, Alpha Psi Omega Honorary Drama Fraternity, and Gamma Pi Chi Sorority. She was a seeker of knowledge who pursued a continuation of learning throughout her lifetime. Shirley started her teaching career in the Dormont Public Schools from 1960 to 1962. She then taught for 18 years in Prince George's County, Md., where she received the Outstanding Educator's Award in 1980. Her next position was with Kildonan School in Amenia, N.Y. This was a private day/residential school designed for students with dyslexia and other language-based learning disabilities. For 21 years she served as tutor, teacher trainer, academic dean, math teacher, and director of the Elementary Program. Upon her retirement in 2002, the Board named the new elementary building on campus, The Shirley Kokesh Elementary Building. Her devotion to her students and to teaching extended beyond the classroom. She was loved and will be remembered by all who passed through her life. She was Lutheran by faith, and a member of St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Carmichaels. She worked tirelessly for her church family. She was a member of the Mission Circle who, through the creation and sales of various crafts raised funds for numerous charities. She was passionate about helping the less fortunate. She was predeceased by her parents; and her beloved fur babies, Mishka and Whiskas. Left to cherish her memory are her uncles, Sam and Andrew Popovich; many nieces, nephews, cousins, and numerous friends, neighbors, and her church family. Special thanks to Jennie's Personal Care Home in Smock. Their kindness and loving attention to our Shirl made her last days peaceful. We, her family and friends, are grateful. Also special thanks too Amedisys Hospice Care. Visitation will take place from 10 to 11 a.m., the hour of service, Thursday, June 13, in St. Paul's Lutheran Church, 224 S. Market Street, Carmichaels, with Chuck Hubble officiating. Interment will follow at Sylvan Heights Cemetery. Shirley's life was spent in service to others. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St. Paul's Mission Circle, 224 S. Market Street, Carmichaels, PA 15320, or to a charity of one's choice. Arrangements entrusted to the John S. Maykuth Funeral Home, Inc., Masontown.