Shirley Pastore

Shirley Pastore of White Plains, New York, passed away on October 3, 2019 while surrounded by her family. Shirley was born in Chelsea, MA on March 16, 1931 to the late Frank and Fanny Gootar. Shirley relocated to Bronx, NY and then ultimately to White Plains, NY where she raised her family and lived for the past 50 years.

She is survived by her children, Joseph Civita of White Plains, Fran Civita and son-in-law, Daniel Rosenthal of White Plains. She is also survived by her two greatest joys in her life, her two grandchildren, Marina and Marc Rosenthal. She was predeceased by her husband Joseph, her daughter Melanie, her brother Harry, her sister Lillian and her longtime companion of 36 years, William Gagliardo.

Shirley worked as a switchboard operator at Gannett Newspapers in White Plains, for 15 years. She then moved on to work at Blythedale Children's Hospital in Valhalla for the next 30 years, before retiring in 2012. She was well known at Blythedale for her ever-present smile, warm, helpful demeanor, and steady supply of lollipops for the children.

Shirley was a devoted mother, grandmother, and friend, who always put others needs before her own. She enjoyed vacationing in Las Vegas, weekends in upstate New York, dining out, and regular visits to the hair salon. She loved to cook and was especially well known for her eggplant parmesan and cheesecake. Shirley had a tremendous heart and a giant beaming smile. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

A funeral will be held Monday, October 7, 2019 at 10AM in the Chapel in the Woods at Congregation Kol Ami, 252 Soundview Avenue, White Plains, NY 10606.

The burial immediately follows the funeral at Cedar Park Cemetery, 735 Forest Avenue, Paramus, NJ 07652 (201-262-1100).

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in her name to Blythedale Children's Hospital.