Shirley G. Sperier

Surrounded by her admiring family, on January 10, 2018, the loving spirit of Shirley Guidry Sperier was released to God. Shirley was born in New Orleans on January 8, 1925 to Henry and Stella (Rosselli) Guidry. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 38 years, Alex. She was the mother of Maureen Sapero and mother-in-law of Bill Sapero, grandmother of Katherine (Ben) Curry and Jimmy Shaffer, and great-grandmother of Allison and Sean Curry. Shirley was the sister of Florence Ertel and Ronald Guidry, and the late Marie Windham, Anna Mae Labatut, Henry Guidry, Jr., and Ernest Guidry. She was an adoring godmother and aunt to a host of nieces and nephews in her native New Orleans and elsewhere.  As a young adult, Shirley contributed to the war effort at Higgins Shipyard in New Orleans. She retired from Orleans Parish School Board after many years of service, where she was most proud to assist in the implementation of their free and reduced meal program. Shirley moved from New Orleans in 1990 with her daughter and grandchildren, creating their new home in Maryland. There, she became a second mother, assisting to raise Katie and Jimmy. Devoted to her faith, she was an active member of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church in Crofton for several years. In her retirement, Shirley enjoyed traveling, playing cards, and socializing with her many friends. She kept current with the news, reading the Washington Post cover to cover every day until her death. She was very concerned about the future of the country. Above all, she enjoyed the company of her daughter, son-in-law, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She was loving, engaging, and joyful throughout her 93 years.Shirley had a special feeling for Maryknoll's work on behalf of the poor. For those would would like to make a donation in lieu of flowers, the family suggests the Maryknoll Missioners. Donations can be made to one of the three divisions of Maryknoll: The Maryknoll Fathers and Brothers, The Maryknoll Lay Missioners, and The Maryknoll Sisters. Each has their own website describing their work and can receive donations online. Donations can also be mailed to Maryknoll, NY 10545.