Shirley Furchner

Shirley M. "Mang" Furchner, 90, of Lebanon, NJ formerly of Wassergass, PA passed away Thursday, January 30, 2025 at Hunterdon Medical Center, Flemington, NJ. She was the wife of the late Donald Carl Furchner for 66 years until his death in March 4, 2021. Shirley was born in Bethlehem on March 28, 1934 to the late Melvin and Bertha (Rader) Mundy. Beyond her professional accomplishments, as Vice-President of the former First Star Savings, Shirley was a nurturing matriarch who embraced family as the essence of her life. Following the tragic loss of her daughter Valerie, she and her husband Don lovingly took on the role of parents to their grandchildren, Heather and Bill. They dedicated themselves to raising them, instilling values of kindness and integrity. Known affectionately as "Mang," Shirley radiated light and love to all who knew her. Her unmatched strength and grace were a source of inspiration for family and friends alike.

An active skier, Shirley and her husband Don, both served on Ski Patrol at Big Boulder Ski Resort for many years. She loved handing out candy and sitting on the porch after spending an afternoon reading. Passionate about football, every Saturday she could be found watching Penn State, Sunday's were spent watching every NFL game she could, and Mondays were to discuss every play with her great grandsons over coffee. For over 60 years, she cherished her time in Stone Harbor, NJ, where she found joy sitting on the beach and watching her family grow, creating lasting memories that filled her heart.

Mang and Don moved from Wassergass, PA to Lebanon, NJ with Heather several years ago. She loved spoiling her great grandsons, enjoyed cooking with them and watching them compete in athletics. Mang loved her day trips back to Hellertown and always stopped at Matey's Crossroads. For last few years, Mang loved getting her signature purple hair highlight "because you only go around once Heath."

Survivors: granddaughter: Heather A. Karp of Lebanon, NJ; great grandsons: Grant, Carter and Landon Goldan. She was predeceased by her daughter: Valerie J. Karp; son-in-law: William B. Karp; grandson: William B. Karp, Jr.

Services: A private graveside service will be held at the Union Cemetery of Hellertown. Online condolences may be offered www.connellfuneral.com.

Contributions: In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Sassy Massy Smiles Foundation, P.O. Box 198, Coopersburg, PA 18036 or at www.sassymassey.org.