Shirley Carol Worthen

PLYMOUTH --- On October 22, Shirley Carol Worthen (née Frame) left this life in pursuit of greener pastures. Her life began in Boston, until her parents, Elmer and Clara, relocated their young family to Franklin, New Hampshire, and subsequently to New Hampton, where they operated a country store. Despite humble origins and the loss of her father at a young age, she lived a full and remarkable life.

Her marriage to Rick Worthen, an Air Force pilot, took her around the world following her graduation from Newfound Memorial High School in Bristol. Whether living in Japan, Italy, Germany, or many stateside locations, she faced the challenges of raising three spirited children while uprooting and resettling every few years.

Those who loved her knew she could be fiercely opinionated, but she always supported the disadvantaged—both in heart and deed—as evidenced by her many years of giving to Bristol Community Services. Her beliefs were always accompanied by action, no matter how small the gesture. She spent numerous years as a librarian in New Hampton and had a love for gardening. She was also an excellent cook and cherished her trips to Longview Farm for fresh produce and to support local businesses.

In her later years, her commitment to personal growth was highlighted by her earning a degree in history from Plymouth State College, where she graduated summa cum laude.

She showered love on her three children—sons Greg and Eric, and daughter Abigail—as well as eight grandchildren: Jordan, Zachery, Elizabeth, Taylor, Katie, Cabot, Alexandra, and Ella; and great-grandchild, Ignatius. She enjoyed the fellowship of lifelong friends and always looked forward to card games and conversation. Her love of art, history, literature, social justice, and education was passed on to her family, and she took immense pride in the accomplishments of those she cared for. She was a good neighbor and welcomed all at her door.

She is preceded in death by her younger brother, Robert Frame, and her parents, Clara and Elmer. Her remaining siblings—Chester, George, and Lydia Frame—share in the deep sense of loss. We are all grateful to have shared time, love, challenges, hopes, and dreams with her, and we will continue to bask in her example of lifelong growth and unwavering support for the oppressed and disadvantaged.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to Bristol Community Services so that her last act in this life may benefit those in need. A celebration of life will be held and will be announced at a later date by the family.