Shirley Smith Anderson

Shirley Smith Anderson, longtime Mattituck resident, and formerly of Hempstead, NY, passed away on Saturday, March 14, 2026. She was 95 years old.

Shirley was born on June 30, 1930 in Mineola, NY to Hazel (née Sweezey) and Henry Buel Smith. She was one of three children. After high school, she attended Syracuse University and graduated collegiately with a Bachelor’s Degree.

Shirley was a force of nature. She was many peoples second mother. She was always interested in your life, health and education. She never refrained from lending a hand or giving advice. She spent her younger years raising five children, while being a teaching member and educator of the Orton Society (now known as the International Dyslexia Association) for sixty plus years. Shirley lived in the same home in Mattituck since 1932, which officially became her permanent year round residence in 1989. She was raised on the Great Peconic Bay and salt water runs in her veins. She loved sailing and boating, but mostly spent her later years walking in the water in front of her Camp Mineola home. She enjoyed being part of the Presbyterian Church, and frequently had dinner parties and gatherings at her home. She continued to be invested in clubs like the Lionesses. Her favorite time of year was Summer when her children, grandchildren, and friends and their families from down the beach, all gathered for Summer fun. Everyone along the beach called her Aunt Shirley and made a point to visit every time they could.

Predeceased by her husband Robert; son Wayne Anderson; and siblings Buel Smith and Thorton Smith; Shirley is survived by her children Brian Anderson of Mattituck, Glenn Anderson of Mattituck, Dean Anderson of Huntington, NY and Alene Harrington of Richmond, VA; grandchildren Eric Anderson, Brittney Anderson Olsen, Andrew Harrington, Abigail Harrington, Amanda Harrington and Alicia Harrington; great-grandchildren Thomas Olsen and William Olsen; and sister-in-law Sherry Smith.

A Celebration of Life for Shirley will be held on Saturday, June 27, 2026 at the family’s home in Mattituck, officiated by Rev. Dr. Peter J. Kelley.

DeFriest-Grattan Funeral Home in Mattituck is serving the family.

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