Shirley J. Savage

Shirley J. Savage, 89, of Dexter, NY, passed away peacefully at her home on September 2, 2025, surrounded by her beloved family and under the compassionate care of Hospice of Jefferson County.

Shirley was born on June 13, 1936, in Watertown, NY, the daughter of George and Harriett (Hawes) Dorr. She graduated from Brownville-Glen Park School and went on to attend the Watertown School of Commerce.

On June 12, 1959, she married Karl Savage. Shirley worked at Faichney’s and  Dexter School before dedicating herself fully to raising her family and helping on the family’s dairy farm, which she and Karl took over from her father. She lived on the farm her entire life and took great pride in its care and legacy.

Shirley was an avid knitter, and made countless baby blankets and dishcloths for family and friends. Her deep love for all animals, especially horses and cats, was well known, and she found joy in caring for them. She was also passionate about gardening and took pride in canning the produce from her garden each season, watching birds and spending time at the Wiley Cottage at Rock Beach. 

She is survived by her loving children: Alan K. and Amy Savage, of Dexter, NY; Gail E. Savage of North Carolina; Joanne M. Flath of Dexter, NY; and Shari S. and Patrick Lyng of Croghan, NY. Shirley also leaves behind nine cherished grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

She was predeceased by her parents, George and Harriett Dorr and beloved husband Karl in 2014.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, September 7, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at the family farm, located at 26803 County Route 54, Dexter. A prayer service will be conducted at 2:00 PM by Reverend Leon Van Wie.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Shirley’s memory to Hospice of Jefferson County 1398 Gotham St., Watertown, NY 13601, The Last Station in Dexter at www.dexterfvd.org or to  the Jefferson County SPCA 25056 Water St., Watertown, NY 13601.

Condolences may be shared online at www.dexterfuneralhome.com.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.