Shirley A. Derrick, of Dexter, New York, passed away peacefully at her home on July 11, 2026, with her youngest child and longtime caregiver, Teri Strader, by her side.

Born on April 27, 1935, in Dexter, New York, Shirley was the daughter of Woodrow W. Derrick and N. Frances (Farr) Derrick. She was a lifelong resident of Dexter and remained deeply connected to her community throughout her life.

Shirley graduated from Dexter High School in 1952. Following graduation, she worked at the local grocery store in Dexter before marrying Jack F. Strader in 1953. Four children were born from their marriage, which later ended in divorce.

Committed to lifelong learning, Shirley returned to school later in life and earned her Associate Degree with honors from Jefferson Community College in 1992.

She was predeceased by her son, Jack A. Strader, who passed away on December 10, 2011. Shirley is survived by her other 3 children and 2 loving spouses, Mark D. (Linda) Strader of Adams, New York; Lori S. (Daniel) Dumas of Syracuse, New York; and Teri Strader of Dexter, New York. She is also survived by several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren.

Shirley will be remembered for her dedication to her family, her perseverance, and her lifelong commitment to the Dexter community. She served as a Den Mother with the Cub Scouts to support her sons and as a Girl Scout leader to provide a positive role model for her daughters. She was an active member of the Dexter Citizens Committee, where she volunteered in numerous capacities, including calling bingo on Monday evenings and working in the concession stand at Dexter Memorial Field during fast-pitch softball tournaments and community field days.

Shirley devoted countless hours to organizing fundraisers in support of youth programs in Dexter. As president of Build a Better School (BABS), she helped raise funds for Dexter Elementary School by collecting and sorting thousands of soup labels over many years to purchase sports equipment for local students. She also coached a T-Ball team to ensure her daughters had the opportunity to participate in youth sports.

Above all, Shirley was a devoted mother. Despite a lifetime of physical hardship and chronic pain, she never allowed those challenges to diminish her commitment to her children. She rarely missed a school event and faithfully attended sporting events, band performances, chorus concerts, and countless other activities. Her unwavering presence, encouragement, and love were gifts her family cherished throughout their lives. Shirley was also known for her handcrafted creations. Through skills she taught herself, she created beautiful embroidery, knitted items, and crocheted treasures for family, friends, and those in need. Over the years, many of her handmade items were generously donated to charitable organizations including Victims Assistance Center of Watertown reflecting her caring spirit and desire to help others.

Her kindness, strength, generosity, and devotion to those she loved will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew her.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Stillerman and the staff of the Watertown Wound Care Center for their compassionate care, kindness, and support over the past ten years. Their dedication greatly enhanced Shirley's quality of life and meant so much to both Shirley and her family.

In accordance with her wishes, arrangements have been entrusted to Johnson Funeral Home. Cremation will take place, and burial will be held at the convenience of the family in Dexter Cemetery. 

Please consider any donations going to Hospice of Jefferson County. Their care and support allowed Shirley to remain home as she transitioned into the arms of God.

Online condolences may be left at www.dexterfuneralhome.com