Shirley May Somers

Shirley May Somers, 84, of Hartford passed away on Monday, Feb. 14, 2022, at Hanson Hospice Center, Stevensville.

Shirley was born on Nov. 19. 1937, in Watervliet, the daughter of Joseph and Adele (Bartella) Swetay.

Shirley was known as the "Dalmatian Lady" for her many walks in all the Hartford parades with her famous dog, Daisy Mae, whom she would dress up according to the celebration. She was a graduate of Covert High School and was formerly employed at DuWells of Hartford and Coloma Frozen Foods. She was a member of the Red Hat Ladies and the Hartford Bible Church. In her spare time she collected all kinds of Dalmatian memorabilia, played Domino’s, did search-a-word books, traveled, and most importantly spent time with her many friends.

Shirley is survived by a brother, Don Swetay of Kalamazoo, Mich., her caregiver of many years, Bonney (Douglas) Meachum; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Shirley was preceded in passing by her first husband, Gordon Dade; her second husband, Waldo Somers; her beloved dog, Daisy Mae; and two brothers: Alfred and Joey Swetay.

Shirley will be deeply missed by the Meachum family and her church friends.

The family will welcome friends from 10-11 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 22, at the Hartford Bible Church, followed by the funeral service to honor her memory. Pastor Benjamin Williamson will officiate. Shirley will be laid to rest in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Shirley’s name may be made to the Hartford Bible Church or to Al Van Humane Society in South Haven. The family has entrusted the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, with arrangements. Those wishing to leave condolences for the family may do so at http://www.calvin-leonardfh.com.