Shirley Ann McCarthy Plue

1935 - 2017

Waterford - Shirley Ann McCarthy Plue, 81, of Waterford, passed away on July 5, 2017, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Shirley began her life in Montpelier, Vt. on Dec. 11, 1935. She was the eldest of three children. From an early age, she exhibited a zest for life and learning, and her curiosity helped her excel in all of her ambitions.

Professionally, Shirley modeled a strong work ethic. She spent 13 years as a respected realtor, and finished her full-time career as a technical assistant and operator-training secretary at Millstone Nuclear Power Plant, where she retired in 1995 after 12 years of service. Beginning in 2006, Shirley worked at Bayview Healthcare for nine years as a part-time receptionist.

In addition to her successful career, Shirley flourished most when helping others. She served as a literacy tutor and spearheaded special training programs to help Millstone operators on their yearly exams, while simultaneously earning her associates degree in human services. In retirement, she dedicated even more of her time to others by teaching computer classes at the local senior center. Her infectious personality and kind demeanor made her a great role model and mentor, for both the young and young at heart.

A devout Catholic, Shirley lived her life following her mother's mantra, "Give and you will always receive." Shirley lived this philosophy by being active in her church and supporting many deserving causes, but her true joy was her family.

Shirley, better known as Mom, Memere, Mem, Memster, or Great Memere, was her family's matriarch in every sense of the word: a strong, compassionate woman, who was kind, loyal and loving. She occupied a central role in her family's lives and was a pillar of strength for all who knew her.

The family takes comfort in knowing Shirley is reunited with her beloved husband, David R. Plue, her parents, Amedee J. Marineau and Laura Vitaline Huard Marineau, and her brother, Douglas J. Marineau.

Shirley is survived by her five children and their spouses, Carey Anne (Timothy) McNeil, Karin (Jack) Voelker, Colleen (Carl) Carano, Lin (Jon) Stang, and Shaun (Tracey) McCarthy. In addition to her brother and his wife, Raymond A. (Louise) Marineau, she also leaves behind nine grandchildren, Ryan (Amanda), Lauren, Erin (Austin), Patrick, Brittani, Joseph, Cullan, Keely, and Keegan, and two great-grandchildren, Benjamin and Avery, who will miss her doting affection. Many nieces, nephews, and cousins will also miss Shirley. Her first husband and father of her children, Richard J. McCarthy, additionally survives her.

The family wishes to thank all the family and friends who have provided ongoing love and support, and the compassionate staffs at Green Tree Manor, L+M Dana Farber Cancer Center, and Jordan Ambulance Service of Waterford, and L+M Hospital of New London, who all eased her suffering with dignity and grace.

Family and friends are invited to a celebration of life service from 5 to 7 p.m. on Saturday, July 29, at Thomas L. Neilan & Sons Funeral Home, 48 Grand St., Niantic. Interment will be private.