Shirley June Jones, 96, of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully on August 30, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family at the home of her daughter and son-in-law, Darla and Daniel Carey, where she had lived for the past ten years.

Her passing marks the end of a long and meaningful life defined by devotion to family, enduring friendships, laughter, and a strong spirit that remained unmistakably her own.

Born June 16, 1930, in Plymouth, Pennsylvania, Shirley was the daughter of the late George Brink Morgan and Kathleen Allabaugh Morgan. A proud graduate of Plymouth High School, Class of 1948, she carried with her throughout her life the values, memories, and connections formed in the community she called home.

Shirley was a member of the Plymouth VFW Women's Auxiliary for 76 years and had served as its president. She was also a longtime member of Diamond City Alliance Church in Wilkes-Barre.

Shirley loved deeply, laughed often, and lived life on her own terms. Strong-willed and, as her family would lovingly say, more than a little stubborn, she possessed a wonderful sense of humor and a personality that could fill a room. Her warmth, determination, and unmistakable spirit touched everyone who knew her, leaving behind memories her family will cherish forever.

Her greatest pride was her family. Shirley was the loving mother of two daughters, Darla Carey, wife of Daniel Carey, and Colleen Jones. She was a devoted grandmother and great-grandmother who cherished her family and was always concerned about the people she loved.

She is survived by her grandchildren and their families: Brian and Stephanie Carey of Chantilly, Virginia; Scott and Nancy Carey of Allentown, Pennsylvania; Christopher and Kate Carey of Lansdale, Pennsylvania; and Wren and Joseph Bailey of Inkerman, Pennsylvania.

She was also a proud great-grandmother to McKenna June Carey, Grayson Michael Carey, and Emersyn Rae Carey, all of Chantilly, Virginia; Amelia Morgan Carey of Lansdale, Pennsylvania; and Xane Stolz of Allentown, Pennsylvania.

Shirley is also survived by her sisters-in-law, Pat Jones and Jerre Jones.

Shirley was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Raymond K. Jones Jr., who passed away in 2013, and her wonderful sister, Joyce Johns, with whom she shared a very close bond.

Family meant everything to Shirley, and that love extended well beyond her immediate family. She cared deeply for her nieces and nephews and treasured the relationships she shared with them.

She was also blessed throughout her life with special people who became family. Leslie Simko held a very special place in Shirley's heart. Leslie was not simply a friend-she was family. Their bond was one Shirley treasured dearly, including their special Thursdays together when Leslie would do her hair.

Shirley also held a special place in her heart for Mary Mazonkey, who, along with Darla, Dan, and Colleen, remained by Shirley's side throughout her final days. Their love, presence, and devotion meant more than words can express.

The family would like to extend a very special thank you to Joni and Sue of Hospice of the Sacred Heart for the compassionate care, kindness, and comfort they provided to Shirley and her family during her final days.

Shirley loved spending Friday nights at the Plymouth VFW with her daughter Colleen, enjoying a hot dog and her favorite drink, blueberry schnapps with 7 UP. She made many wonderful friends there and especially enjoyed listening to the music of her favorite country artist, Josh Turner.

Shirley had many loves in her life, including her family, her friends, and her favorite sports teams. She proudly cheered for Notre Dame, the Pittsburgh Steelers, and the Philadelphia Phillies. Her family will smile remembering her passion for her teams, her strong opinions, and that unmistakable personality that could fill a room.

She will be remembered not simply for the years she lived, but for the love she gave, the laughter she shared, the lessons she taught, and the countless memories she left behind.

She was Mom. She was Nanny. She was family. She was a friend. She was Shirl to her grandson Brian. She was Shirley.

And although her family knows she is finally at peace, there will never be a day when she isn't missed.

Celebration of Shirley’s Life takes place on Friday, September 4, 2026, at McLaughlin’s, 142 South Washington Street in Wilkes-Barre. Visitation begins at 10 AM, and Pastor Scott Wills of Diamond City Alliance Church will lead a funeral service at 11 AM.

Donations to Diamond City Alliance Church, 282 Old River Road, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702, or Hospice of the Sacred Heart, 100 William Street, Dunmore, PA 18512, are preferred and will honor Shirley’s memory.

Share memories and condolences with Shirley’s family at mjmclaughlin.com