Shirley Jones Hart

SHIRLEY JONES HART
THE WOMAN. COMPASSIONATE. KIND

Shirley Jones Hart, age 89, of Newton, NH, formerly of Amesbury, MA, passed peacefully at her home on Wednesday evening, August 14, 2024, surrounded by the love and support of her devoted family. She was the loving wife of William Livingston Hart, with whom she shared 64 years of marriage before his passing in 2020.

Born in Amesbury on November 24, 1934, Shirley was the daughter of the late Harriett Goodrich Jones Smith and Stanley Jones. She graduated from Amesbury High School and went on to work at the Amesbury Hat Factory, where she met Bill.

Their move to Newton, NH, marked the beginning of a new chapter dedicated to raising their family. Once their children were in school, Shirley used her skills as a bookkeeper at ArtVac Corporation, a company specializing in custom zinc die-cast products.

Retirement in 1988 opened up a world of adventure as she and Bill spent the next 15 years traveling by camper, exploring and enjoying the freedom of the open road. This period of their lives allowed them to embrace new experiences and deepen their bond through shared adventures and discovery.

Shirley’s dedication to her family was just one facet of her vibrant life. Her myriad hobbies and passions—baking, gardening, reading, crosswords, bird watching, crafting, and camping—reflect a life lived with curiosity, creativity, and a deep appreciation for the world around her. Her love for nature and the outdoors illustrates a commitment to both her community and her personal joys. Each of these interests contributed to a rich tapestry of experiences that will be fondly remembered by those who knew her.

Shirley’s lifelong friendships with the “SOBs” (a cherished group of high school friends) were a vibrant and enduring part of her life. Throughout their lives, they maintained a strong connection, sharing countless moments over coffee, cards, meals out, and festive Christmas parties. These gatherings, filled with laughter and camaraderie, were often complemented by the husbands, who joined in the fun and contributed to the group’s joyful shenanigans. This circle of friends not only enriched Shirley’s life but also created a tapestry of shared memories that will be fondly remembered and celebrated.

Shirley leaves behind a loving family who will deeply miss her: her sons, Kevin W. and Keith W. Hart; her daughters, Valerie A. Hart, Christine J. Erna (and her husband Jon), and Tracey L. Hart. She is also survived by her two grandchildren, Keith W. Hart and Whitney A. Liechti (and her husband Steve), as well as her two great-grandsons, Cole and Theo Liechti. Additionally, she is remembered by several generations of nieces and nephews, extended family, and dear friends. She was predeceased by her three sisters, who were a significant part of her life.

Visiting hours for Shirley will be held on Thursday from 4 to 7 P.M. at the Highland Chapel of Paul C. Rogers Family Funeral Home, located at 2 Hillside Avenue, Amesbury. A private burial at Willow Grove Cemetery in Newton Junction, NH, will follow for the family.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Shirley’s memory to the New Hampshire SPCA at giving@nhspca.org.