Shirley Jakiela

Shirley Ann Jakiela died on June 3rd, 2021 at the age of 84. Born on 11-11-36, Shirley was a life-long resident of Southington, CT and was the adopted daughter of the late Irving and Anna Fallon.

In her youth Shirley was a gymnast, dancer and majorette and owned her own dance studio. She went on to work at Pratt & Whitney for her entire adult life until the day they walked her out - telling her, “Granny, [her work nick name] you have to go home.”

There was nothing Shirley loved more than children, and she dedicated her life to raising them. For over 6 decades, Shirley was primarily known as 'Ma' to the 164 foster children she took into her home, including the 3 she raised as her own: Junita, Tony, and Robin.  For over 40 years, Shirley has been known as Grandma J to her 13 grandchildren, and 17 great grandchildren. One of the most important people in Shirley's life was her grandchild, Bobbi, who she raised and loved through every phase of life.

Shirley is survived by her children : Juanita Jakiela, Robin Frost (husband Fred), and Tony Maloney; grandchildren: Bobbi Jakiela, Tiffiany Rios, Joey Rios, Reihonna Frost-Calhoun (wife Alex), Samantha Frost (husband Colin), Jaclynn Frost, Lataya Maloney-Adams (husband Kijuan), Brian Jordan, Levi Jordan, Chantel Maloney, Tony Mathurin, Myla Maloney, and Zahir Maloney; great-grandchildren: Mason, Kyrie, Kobe, Monae, Tiana, Jasmine, Johenn, Alaya, Tyrome, Jordan, Levi Jr, Harmony, Serinity, LeElla, London, Milan, and Gabriella; close friends: Peggy Hick and Zulika Oliver-Maloney; and sister: Marlene Kulesa. Shirley is predeceased by her parents, her brother Irving, and her husband Robert.

Shirley had many names... Ma, Grandma J, Granny. She was the ultimate caretaker and will be remembered as a hardworking, independent woman who mowed her own lawn until she was 80, had a mind like a steel trap, gave the best gifts you'll ever receive, and never met a kid who wasn't welcome in her home. If there is anything to learn from Shirley, its that any and everybody can be family. It is not about the blood in your veins, or the branches of a family tree — It’s about a feeling of belonging somewhere and unconditional love.

Shirley requested zero pomp after her passing, so there will be no services. In lieu of flowers please consider donating to https://www.ccp-ct.org/donate/