Vivian Shirley Hackman

Shirley was born in Radford, VA to Lillian Phillippi and Harry Buck, the middle child of three. She attended Radford High School, where she became student body president and played on the tennis team. She went on to earn a degree in Medical Technology from Radford College and then moved to Portsmouth, VA with her family. It was at church there that her sister introduced her to her future husband, Melvin Hackman. They married in 1948. Their two children, Beth and Lynn, were born in Portsmouth. The family moved twice for Mel’s career, first to Willingboro, NJ and then to Bowie, MD in 1965. Shirley went back to work as a Medical Technologist in a small lab in Bowie while the girls were growing up, and she ultimately became a supervisor there. Mel and Shirley were married for 63 years until his death in 2012.

She was an avid reader all her life, especially enjoying mysteries. And her crossword skills were much admired, as she was able to work through many a New York Times puzzle. She was known for her warm and caring nature and her playful sense of humor to the end.

Our wonderful Mom and Grandmom was very much loved and will be greatly missed. She is survived by her two daughters -- Beth Barbier (Louis) and Lynn Ketchaver (Ray); three grandchildren -- Lauren Larsson (David), Melissa Clayton (Charles), and Rae Marie Willis (Brian); and three great-granddaughters -- Alice Larsson, and Katherine and Claire Willis. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in support of the ASPCA, one of Shirley’s favorite charities.