Shirlene J. Silfies, 85, of New Tripoli, died Feb. 27, 2022, surrounded by her loving family at home.

She was the widow of Jack S. Silfies, who died in 2012.

Born in Emmaus, she was a daughter of the late Harvey and Mildred (Kline) Rinker.

A graduate of Allen High School, Allentown, she later opened Shirlene’s School of Dance in New Tripoli, where she was a self-employed dance instructor from 1980-2013.

She was also the owner and artist of Santa Legends, New Tripoli.

She was a member of Central Moravian Church, Bethlehem.

A founder of Jacksonville Summer Theatre for 14 years, she also choreographed many high school plays for the Northwestern and Kutztown school districts.

A beloved mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, her survivors include her daughter Jodi E. (Michael) Stanley of New Tripoli; sons Gary L. Silfies of Allentown and Tim D. Silfies of New Tripoli; eight grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; sister Sharon (Bill) Wanko of Tafton; brother-in-law Bruce Kotenbeutel of New Ringgold; several nieces and a nephew.

She was predeceased by a sister Patricia Kotenbeutel.

Her memorial service will be 11 a.m. March 24 in Central Moravian Church, 73 W. Church St., Bethlehem, PA 18018.

Calling hour begins at 10 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to her church, sent directly to the address above.

Condolences may be made at nesterfuneralhome.com

Arrangements made by Robert S. Nester Funeral Home, New Tripoli.