Shirley E. (Smeesters) Cullen's Obituary
Shirley E. (Smeesters) Cullen, 74, of Lawrence, passed away peacefully on Friday, February 6, 2026, at home, surrounded by her loving family.
Shirley was born in Lawrence on May 24, 1951, the cherished daughter of the late Robert F. and Mary B. (Jencius) Smeesters. A proud graduate of Lawrence High School's class of 1969, she went on to earn her associate’s degree from Bryant-McIntosh College, laying the foundation for a fulfilling career in the furniture industry. Shirley served as a dedicated manager at Ippolito’s Furniture in Lawrence, later bringing her expertise to Weiner's Furniture in Salem, NH, and finally to Furniture World in Salem, NH, where she thrived until her well-earned retirement.
An adventurous spirit at heart, Shirley was an avid RV traveler who found immense joy in wandering the picturesque landscapes of Maine, with her trips to Ellsworth, ME, holding a special place in her memories as havens of serenity and delight. She was also a passionate eBay buyer and seller for many years, relishing the excitement of discoveries and connections it brought. Shirley had a vibrant love for dancing and listening to music, which filled her life with rhythm and happiness. Ever compassionate and creative, she took great pleasure in designing heartfelt memorial pictures for friends who had lost their beloved pets, sharing in their memories and offering comfort during times of grief. Above all, Shirley adored her many pet dogs and cats, all of whom have now crossed the Rainbow Bridge, including her faithful Jack Russell Terrier, Benny, and her dear cat, Tucker, who were sources of endless love, laughter, and companionship.
Shirley will be deeply missed by her devoted sister, Deborah J. Smeesters-Prudhomme, and her husband, Paul R., of Dracut; her long-time companion, David Tewel, of Lawrence; and her twelve cousins: Joseph Argenziano, June Bunkardis, Joyce Talbert, Judith Seguin, Donna Case, retired North Andover Fire Chief William Dolan and his wife, Colleen, Leslie and her husband, Marc, Ellen Manning, Daniel Manning, and Adam, Steven, and Anthony Kulesza. She was predeceased by her brother, Russell F. Smeesters, and her sister, Diana M. Smeesters.
At the request of the family, all services will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Shirley’s memory can be made to Compassus Hospice at www.compassuslivingfoundation.org/give-now, to the American Heart Association at www.heart.org, or to the charity of one’s choice—reflecting her kind-hearted nature and the causes she held dear. Shirley’s family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the nurses and staff at Compassus Hospice for the exceptional care and comfort they provided during her final days. For directions or to convey condolences online, please visit www.methuenfh.com. The Methuen Family Funeral Home is honored to serve the Smeesters-Cullen families during this difficult time.
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