Shirley M. Rubera's Obituary
Shirley M. Rubera, 89, of Lawrence, MA, passed away on Monday, October 13, 2025, at the Lawrence General Hospital in Lawrence, MA, with her loving and devoted family by her side. Born in London, United Kingdom, she was the daughter of the late Sydney and Mable (Trew) Priddle.
Born in England, Shirley came to the United States to begin a new life filled with hope and determination. Through her courage and strength, she built a beautiful legacy rooted in love, resilience, and family.
Shirley was the devoted mother of six children. She gave her life to caring for her children and grandchildren, always putting family first.
Her grandchildren were her pride and joy, and she cherished every moment spent with them. Along with her family, Shirley had a deep and unconditional love for her dogs, who brought her endless joy and companionship throughout her life. They were her loyal friends and constant comfort, always by her side and in her heart.
For many years, Shirley worked with the Greater Lawrence Community Action Council, where she touched the lives of hundreds of children and families. Her compassion, dedication, and kindness left a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.
Shirley will be remembered for her selfless love, her quiet strength, and the way she made others feel valued and cared for. Her legacy lives on through the family she nurtured and the countless lives she touched.
Shirley will be sadly missed and forever in the hearts of her loving family daughter, Debra Kneiper son, Michael LaCroix and his wife Joline, daughter, Gail King and her husband, Edward, daughters, Judy Christofaro, Jody LaCroix, and Susan LaCroix, grandchildren, Joshua LaCroix and Steven King and his wife Brianna, and sister, Wendy Birch. Shirley was predeceased by her two sons, Mark and Gary LaCroix, and her husband, Michael P. Rubera, Sr. She loved Michael’s children and grandchildren with all her heart and considered them her own. To Shirley, family wasn’t defined by blood but by love — and she made everyone she cared for feel truly part of hers.
Relatives and friends are kindly invited to Calling Hours from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM, on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at the Methuen Family Funeral Home, 233 Lawrence Street, Methuen, MA. Shirley’s Funeral Mass will be the next day, Friday, October 24, at 11:00 AM, in St. Monica’s Parish, 212 Lawrence Street, Methuen, MA. Burial to follow at Elmwood Cemetery, N. Lowell Street, Methuen, MA.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Shirley’s memory to the MSPCA at Nevins Farm, 400 Broadway, Methuen, MA 01844 or by visiting, https://support.mspca.org/
The Methuen Family Funeral Home is honored to serve the Rubera family.
What’s your fondest memory of Shirley?
What’s a lesson you learned from Shirley?
Share a story where Shirley's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Shirley you’ll never forget.
How did Shirley make you smile?