Shirley Goldsmith

June 11, 1930 - January 5, 2022

Obituary

When Shirley Jean Goldsmith passed on January 5, 2022, her family lost an inspiration.

Born in Spokane June 11, 1930, she moved with family to Burien as a teen. She attended Highline High School and met Clifford Goldsmith from West Seattle High. After the WWII war in Europe ended, they started a family. There were three children, Daniel, David and Marcia.

Always an ambitious equal partner, she set up household and engaged her children in activities. Den mother for Cub Scouts, Brownie leader, and active in their schooling. When all the kids were finally in school, she went to work for a local bank as a part time teller.

Shirley had a mind for details. Always balanced her check books to the penny, and the bank managers noticed. She went to work full time and eventually became the substitute branch manager for Greater Seattle, filling in for managers on vacation. Eventually the bank offered her a local branch of her own to manage, where she worked until she retired.

In the early 70’s all her children went traveling. She organized a trip to Europe with long time friends. Pictures from that time were turned into paintings and they continued to travel extensively. She always looked forward to travels and entertainment with her husband.

Shirley and Cliff built their own home on Lake Geneva, where they hosted summer gatherings with children and grandchildren. They hosted Christmas for their growing family, dates negotiated until all could attend. Always an early invitation, inclusion for all.

Shirley had a knack for conversation and an interest in those she loved. Willing to laugh at life’s foibles and tend to serious matters as they came. She held her clan close with a consistent web of connection. Notes and cards for special occasions, a birthday song each year.

You will be missed mom, grandma, great grandma. Rest in peace.
“Other things may change us, but we start and end with family.”