Shirley M. Dadian

Shirley (Srpouhi) Dadian passed away peacefully on March 27, 2026, surrounded by her family.

Born on December 15, 1937, to Yervant and Victoria Derder—Armenian Genocide survivors—Shirley was raised with a deep appreciation for faith, resilience, and the enduring strength of family.

As the daughter of immigrants who found hope and opportunity in the United States, she was a proud American Armenian, deeply grateful for the life her family was able to build here. These values shaped the beautiful life she created and the legacy she leaves behind.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 64 years, Archie, in 2022, with whom she shared a partnership and a family rooted in love.

Shirley was a deeply devoted mother to Laurie, Lisa (Bryan), Lyle (Nicole), and Larry (Tanya), and a proud and adoring grandmother to Jordan, Nicholas (Alique), Victoria, Luc, Leo, Sammy, Talia, and Jack. Her children and grandchildren were her greatest joys, and she cherished every moment spent with them.

Her dear brother Sarkis (Sam) preceded her in death in 2009. She is further survived by her brother-in-law Paul (Sally) Dadian and family; her sister-in-law Genie Wisniewski and family; khnamis Mary Boyadjian, Carolyn Arslanian, and Irma Kabakciyan; nieces, Terri, and Vicki; and cherished cousins in California, with whom she shared a deep bond; and many treasured friends.

A woman of deep faith, Shirley was a lifelong and dedicated member of St. John the Baptist Armenian Orthodox Church. She faithfully sang in the choir each Sunday and gave generously of her time and talents—especially in the kitchen—helping prepare and bake for Armenian Fest and countless church gatherings. Her faith was not only something she practiced, but something she lived every day through kindness, humility, and service to others.

In 2008, Shirley fulfilled a lifelong dream with a pilgrimage to Armenia—carrying the memories of her parents with her. Walking on Armenian soil and praying in ancient churches was a profoundly moving and sacred experience. It deepened her already strong faith and gave her a lasting sense of connection, peace, and pride in her heritage.

Shirley retired from the South Milwaukee School District in 1998, where she formed lasting friendships and took great pride in her work. She remained closely connected with her colleagues, gathering regularly for monthly luncheons, and continued to give back by serving on the district scholarship committee for many years.

She had a true gift in the kitchen and found great joy in feeding others. Whether it was freshly baked Keteh, banana bread or her beloved Easter choreg, Shirley was always preparing something to share. Her Yalanchi Sarma and home-cooked meals were family favorites. Her freezer was never empty—always stocked with food made with love. For Shirley, food was more than nourishment— it was her love language.

Above all, Shirley was known for her gentle, thoughtful, and positive spirit. She had a quiet strength, a warm smile, and a way of making everyone feel welcomed, cared for, and at peace. Her life was a reflection of grace, generosity, and deep love for others.

Her greatest priorities were her Church and her family, and she devoted her life fully to both. While her presence will be profoundly missed, her loving spirit will live on in the hearts and lives of her children and grandchildren.

A funeral will be held on Saturday, April 4, 2026 at:

St. John the Baptist Armenian Orthodox Church
7825 W. Layton Avenue
Greenfield, WI 53220

Visitation: 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
Service: 11:30 AM

Burial to follow at Highland Memorial Park in New Berlin, Wisconsin.

A Hokejash (memorial luncheon) will be held following the burial.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. John the Baptist Armenian Orthodox Church.