Shirley J. Taraschi

Shirley J., (nee Knight) at 81, on September 3,2025, of Broomall, PA, formerly of Philadelphia.

Predeceased by her husband Bernard F. Taraschi, her parents Lambert and Georgia Knight and her brother Gordon Knight.

Survived by her sons Joseph Johnston, Bernard, her grandchildren, Mia and Lindsay, her daughter-in-law Debbie, her nieces Lisa Diehl, Christina Mahoney and their families. Also, survived by her sister-in-law Elsie Knight, niece Karen Roda and nephews Thomas and Scott Knight.

Shirley grew up in north Philadelphia with her parents and brother.  After she graduated from Penn Treaty High School, she went on to Dobbins Vo-Tech so she could become a hairdresser.  She earned her license to be a hairstylist and worked for several years in Philadelphia beauty salons.

In 1969, Shirley met Bernie, in Margate, N.J. They met in April, Bernie proposed in June and they were married in November.  After they got married, they lived in south Philadelphia. When their son Bernie was born in 1971, they moved to Broomall, Delaware County where they lived for 54 years.

Shirley was a devoted mother to her son Bernie. She was a wonderful grandmother to her grandchildren Mia and Lindsay.  Shirley always regarded her daughter-in-law Debbie as she would have if Debbie was her own daughter. Shirley was blessed to have her beloved neighbors Marge and Denise for many years.

Shirley was a great cook and baker.  She was famous for her 7-Up pound cake. She would bring a chocolate cake to her cardiologist and his staff on many of her visits.  One of her greatest loves was her animals.  Shriley had many cats and dogs over the years. She rescued countless stray kittens and nursed them back to health.   Most recently, Shirley adored and spoiled her beloved dog Coco and her cats Jackie and Big Boy.

Relatives & friends are invited to her Viewing Saturday, September 13^th 9:00 AM – 9:45 AM followed by her Funeral Mass 10:00 AM all in the church at St. Pius X Church 220 Lawrence Road, Broomall, PA 19008.  Entombment Saints Peter and Paul Mausoleum.

Contributions in Shirley’s memory may be made to Providence Animal Shelter 555 Sandy Bank Road, Media, PA 19063.