Shirley A. Pursell, 88, of Bridgeton Township, Upper Black Eddy, PA, passed away peacefully on Monday, October 27, 2025, at her home.

Born November 7, 1936, in Upper Black Eddy, PA, Shirley was a lifelong resident of Upper Black Eddy, PA. She graduated from Palisades High School in 1954.

A devoted homemaker, Shirley dedicated her life to raising and caring for her family. Earlier in life, she also worked at Riegel Paper Corp. in Milford, NJ. Deeply rooted in her community, Shirley was active with and a strong supporter of the Bridgeton Athletic Association. Her greatest joy came from her family—she was always present at her children’s and grandchildren’s sporting events, cheering them on with pride and love.

Shirley was a longtime member of Upper Tinicum Lutheran Church, where her faith and friendships enriched her life.

Daughter of the late William and Charlotte (Mills) Whitman, Shirley is survived by her three sons James Pursell, Jeffrey Pursell, and John Pursell and his wife Hillary, her daughter Dawn Sweder and her husband James, her eight grandchildren Justine, Katie, Chelsea, Ferron, Ian, BreAnna, and Jenavieve, and one great-grandchild.  She was predeceased by her beloved husband James Pursell in 2018 and her granddaughter Gabrielle Sweder in 2016. 

Services will be announced at a later date.  Arrangements are under the care of the Johnson-Walton Funeral Home, 24 Church Road, Milford, NJ. 

Memorial contributions may be made to Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, PO Box 781352, Philadelphia, PA 19178 or Shriner’s Hospital for Children, Development Office, 3551 North Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19140.