Shirley Mae Panza

Shirley Mae (Sanderson) Panza, 75, of Camp Hill and previously of Blain, passed away on January 19, 2020, at her sister Linda’s home in Loysville, PA.

Shirley was born on April 26, 1944, in Mechanicsburg, PA.  she was the daughter of Marie C. (Clay) Sanderson and Harry F. Sanderson.  Shirley is survived by her twin sister, Linda of Loysville, and her partner Jennilu; her sister Patricia Sheely and spouse Gerry of Mechanicsburg, and her sister-in-law Bev Simmons.  Also surviving are Shirley’s sons, John Kyle and partner Melissa, and David Kyle and spouse Jill both of Camp Hill, and grandsons Chris Kyle and spouse Ellie, Chase Kyle, Bryce Kyle, Jake Malis and Will Malis.  She was predeceased by her husband Russell Panza, and grandsons Colton Kyle and Sam Malis.  Also surviving are her nephews Mike Sheely and spouse Therese, Scott Sheely and spouse Liz, and Marty Sheely and spouse Theresa, Walt Simmons and spouse Debbie, and nieces Lindy and Kimmy.  Shirley had good memories and close feelings for her first husband, Charles Kyle’s, family.

Shirley graduated from Mechanicsburg High School in 1962, where she was a member of the choir and Melodettes.  She was a member of the Evangelical United Brethren Church in Mechanicsburg.  She worked after graduation at the Quaker Oats Company as a keypunch operator and was honored as Outstanding Employee there.  She raised her family in Camp Hill and Mechanicsburg, prior to retiring to Blain in 1993.  She and Russell loved Blain, and Shirley was an active member of the Ladies Auxiliary of Blain Fire Company for many years.  She and Russell spent many hours each year helping with Heritage Days.

Shirley will always be remembered for her love of family gatherings and the festive and beautiful meals she prepared for holidays.  She was a devoted mother, a gifted seamstress, a wonderful cook, a lover of flowers and gardening, and a talented crafter – crocheting, flower arranging, and home décor.  She and Russell enjoyed fishing off the pier in Ocean City, canoeing, bicycling and shooting.  Shirley was an excellent markswoman and won many awards for trap shooting.  She loved a good story and a good laugh, and her and Russell’s front porch in Blain was a favorite gathering spot for friends and neighbors.

Shirley lived most recently with her son John in Camp Hill after the death of her husband.  Shirley will be buried in the Blain Cemetery.  Arrangements at the discretion of the family. 

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