Shirley Manna Obituary

To Donald and family and all friends of Shirley,
My mother, father, and sister (Rivelle, Danny and Lynne) were Shirley’s neighbors and dear friends when I was a child; and Shirley was one of the rocks of our lives. I couldn't possibly put all my memories in this space, but let these suffice: that Shirley and my mom were like sisters; that she and Lillian Siegel were like a Triumvirate with my mom; that they were 3 amazingly spirited people who fed off-of, inspired, and adored each other (and, I might add, were pioneers of feminism probably without knowing it); and that she had a powerful and positive effect on my sister and I. Among other things, Shirley was a pianist, classically trained and very accomplished, who played jazz beautifully as well. She hovered around my piano studies like the Rock of Gibraltar when I was young, prodding, always asking, always listening


She adored my mother and all her passions and bohemian ways; and her support validated not only my mom, but us. She was my mother's soul-mate. And when my mother passed of cancer, Shirley could barely speak: She came up to me and shook her head: "I can't find words...I just can’t find words..." Believe me when I say, she said more with that than with a ream of condolences.

Another memory: Once, in grad school, I asked Shirley if I could use her new piano (her magisterial Boesendorfer Grand) to make a tape for my mother. Stupidly, I said: "I could 'pay' you for your time." Shirley shouted: "Are you CRAZY??? I'm gonna CHARGE you??? You're like a SON to me! Any time, just tell me the time and I’ll make it!" I wound up taping it from my own keyboard after all (convenience, time, etc.); but I guarantee, Shirley would've allowed me all the afternoons I needed. (I even remember when she GOT that piano: She kvelled about it for months. And, truly, if anyone should've had that big black beast, it was Shirley.)

Shirley, I never really thought you'd pass. You were one of my childhood mentors who were indestructible. You were soul-mate to my mother, family to my father, and aunt to Lynne and me. May you be in joy both now and forever, somewhere up there showing people what Heaven is really about. And, to all your family who grieve: May you bask in the glow and affirmation of her Life, and gain strength from it every day. With my deepest condolences and my love, Mark

to donald, alise, nancy, amy and family. our sincere condolenses on your loss. my friendship with both of you began many years ago and as i introduced my wife to both of you our friendship continued, as it was always a pleasure to see and hear and get together with you weather it was here or in florida.i'm going to my grouper buddy and as i said to you donald my phone is open any time you would like an ear or an evening out for a bite. a donation will be given in her honor. thank you for your years of friendship. the smolen family