Shirley A. Bernecker, 79, of Macungie, died Feb. 1, 2025, peacefully at home with her loving husband, Wayne, by her side. Born in Allentown, she was the daughter of the late Pauline and Franklin Beers. She was raised in Allentown and graduated from Louis E. Dieruff High School in 1963.

She put her heart and soul into everything she accomplished including a long career as an executive assistant with Bonney Forge, Air Products and AAA before retiring to enjoy time with her family.

She deeply cherished the importance of family and dear friends and made sure anyone she connected with felt respected and loved. She had a passion for decorating, floral arranging, scrapbooking and above all else, she adored her grandchildren. She especially treasured making memories with them while gardening, baking, arts and crafts or by simply talking and texting with them. She never missed a sporting event, dance recital or important event for her children or grandchildren, even when she was struggling with her health.

But her most cherished relationship of all was the love of her life, her husband and devoted caretaker, Wayne. They were introduced on a blind date at Hieter’s Diner in Emmaus and over the next 57 years they built a life filled with love, travel and treasured memories with their family.

In addition to her husband, she is survived by daughter, Stacey Ross (Mark Lanzone); son, Derek; grandchildren, Liam Ross, Madeline Ross, Sophia Ross, Paige and Conner; sister, Diane Colon.

A memorial service will be held privately at the convenience of the family. Schantz Funeral Home, P.C., Emmaus is handling arrangements.

The family kindly requests contributions to be made in her name to Lehigh Valley Hospice at Lehigh Valley Health Network and addressed to: Lehigh Valley Health Network, Hospice, P.O. Box 1883, Allentown, 18105 or Peaceable Kingdom Animal Shelter at https://www.lvpeaceablekingdom.info/.