Obituary: Shirley Murch Barrere, 76, Of Norwalk

Information via Collins Funeral Home

Shirley Murch Barrere passed away peacefully on April 12, 2023. She was born on June 8, 1946 in South Orange, New Jersey to Robert Murch and Katherine (Kernan) Fitzpatrick.

All her life she proudly proclaimed that she was a “Jersey Girl”! Together with her childhood friend, Sharon Prudish, she spent many happy days at the beach in Bel Mar, New Jersey.

Most of her adult life was spent in Norwalk, CT, always maintaining a connection with the beach and sea. For years, she worked happily at the West Norwalk Nursery School at the United Congregational Church of Norwalk and also served as a water aerobics instructor at the Norwalk YMCA. Later, she took a new position as Development Coordinator and Executive Secretary to the Norwalk Hospital Foundation, Inc. where she stayed for fifteen years. She was beloved by her co-workers and especially President of the Board of Trustees, Carol Bauer. Stories abound about the mirth and irreverence she brought to the office.

Shirley’s love of the beach continued as a member of Roton Point. In 1984, she became one of the original founders of The Roton Point Association when members joined to purchase the Club property from the original owners. She was active serving on many committees, including the Board of Directors and was President from 1989-1991.

She was an avid sports fan, played a competitive game of tennis and worshipped Roger Federer. Posters of him decorated her locker at Roton Point.

Shirley was well known for her love of pretzels (which she shared with the seagulls), Duchess hot dogs, potato chips and Jersey Mike’s sandwiches. She also shared with Yogi Berra an unintentional gift for an unusual turn of phrase. Examples such as “Lettitors to the Editors,” “as normal as applehood and mother pie” and “panting hose,” to name just a few!

Most importantly, Shirley had the gift of friendship. She made friends easily and maintained those friendships far and wide for her whole life.

There will be a celebration of her life on May 20, 2023 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Roton Point Club. In lieu of flowers, please feel free to make a donation to a charity of your choice.