Shirley Hartman Isaacs passed away on Oct. 17, 2025. Shirley resided at the Manor House in Seaford since 2013, having moved to southern Delaware in 1952. She was born in Exchange, Pa. on Jan. 16, 1928, to Berle Greenley and William Hartman.
Shirley was married to Harold Franklin Isaacs (deceased) for 65 years and they were a devoted couple and dedicated parents who lovingly raised three children: Bruce Isaacs (Laura) of Houston, TX; Susan Isaacs of Beaverton, OR; and Patricia Grimes (Michael) of Toronto, Canada. Grandchildren include Thomas (Caroline) Isaacs, Daniel Isaacs and William and Elizabeth Grimes. Great-grandchildren include Owen, Ethan and Madeline Isaacs. Shirley’s siblings include Helen Watts (deceased), Norma Danley (deceased), Patricia Wilson and William Hartman, Jr.
Shirley attended the University of Pennsylvania Nursing School, graduating in 1948, and went on to have a long career. She worked as a nurse in the Veterans Administration Hospital in Perry Point, Md.; for Dr. Rawlins in Seaford for many years; at the Bell Helicopter’s Clinic in Isfahan, Iran; and the Sussex County School District as a school nurse. She also was one of the founding members of the Delmarvalous Quilters Guild of Sussex County. She remained an avid quilter and was an active volunteer, specifically assisting Hospice of Delaware, helping and nurturing where she was needed. Her time at the Manor House was full of new activities and she truly enjoyed volunteering in the Pineapple Boutique, and participating in wonderful card, knitting and book clubs.
For many years, Shirley and Harold lived in Bethany Beach, enjoying their time along the coast and making many friends. Shirley will be remembered as a tremendous mother and grandmother, whose generous nature, wacky humor and kindness will forever stay in the hearts of her children and grandchildren. She was also known for her cooking, especially her decadent desserts that all enjoyed.
A public viewing for friends, family and anyone who Shirley’s life touched was held on Monday, Oct. 20 at Cranston Funeral Home in Seaford. A Celebration of Life was held on Tuesday, Oct. 21 at the Manor House in Seaford. Burial will take place at Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Millsboro at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Shirley’s name to either your local SPCA, the Seaford District Library (600 N Market St Ext, Seaford), or the Manor House Library Fund (1001 Middleford Rd., Seaford).