Deirdre, left behind a legacy enriched by vivid memories and diverse experiences that shaped not only her own life but also those she touched.
From the tenderness of early childhood, where she was known for her nurturing spirit and playful heart, to her adolescent years marked by both mischief and might, from trips on her motorcycle to chasing spirits at the Black Swan Inn in Northfield NH.
In her youth, she focused on school, and she loved and excelled in sports as well - basketball, softball, judo, and track. Deirdre immersed herself in theatrical plays in middle and high school. Acting and singing were her jam, and she always wanted to be the leading lady. Deirdre's life was a canvas of bold strokes and colorful tales. Her vibrant, often eccentric personality shone through her love for the arts, from her unique shell creations that elevated a simple hobby to an art form to her enthralling presence that could both command and, at other times, even empty a room.
Deirdre's passion for the ocean and its serene beauty was reflected in the tranquility she sought which brought her such enjoyment. Her zest for life was infectious. A natural storyteller, Deirdre held a fascination with the spiritual realm, engaging with those who pursued its mysteries, always with the intention of aiding others.
As a mother, her warmth and compassion were evident in every gentle word and supportive embrace, particularly during the sorrowful loss of her stepson Ricky, an event that etched a fragility into her spirit.
Her devotion as a parent shone through in the "Kindness Matters"; initiatives she championed at her children's schools, where she delighted in her portrayal of Witchieepoo, a character of her own creation, bringing smiles to countless children. Deirdre's prowess in Judo was yet another facet of her multifarious life, and she relished recounting the tales of her triumphs and challenges in her younger years. Throughout her journey, music was a constant companion, with the song "Landslide"; by Stevie Nicks holding a special place in her heart-a tune she yearned to sing together and one that became a poignant serenade in her final days.
Deirdre was a hairstylist for many years and enjoyed her work and her clients. She was also a talented electrical circuit designer with Russ Electric in Massachusetts for 17 years, where she took pride in her innovative contributions. She embraced her retirement in Bradenton, Florida, cherishing her time for beach walks and shell collection a place that often reminded her of Cape Code where she loved to roam the beaches in past decades. The lyrics of "Landslide"; echo the chapters of Deirdre's life, mirroring the shifts and challenges she navigated.
"And I saw my reflection in the snow-covered hills and the Landslide brought me down" "Can I sail through the changing ocean tides; can I handle the seasons of my life". -Stephanie Nicks. Deirdre's memory remains a mosaic of moments-joyful, poignant, and eternally cherished. Her life was a testament to the power of kindness, and the strength of a mother's love.
She leaves behind a legacy of love, carried on by her son, Michael Shaponick and Fiancée, Katie Williamson; her family, Liam Denis and Kathleen O'Brien; Eileen and John Pitts; Maureen and Tom Parker; Conor and June O'Brien; Liam Casey and Julia O'Brien; Meghan Glines-O'Brien and Steve Glines; Sean and Leanne O'Brien; Jesse and Lori Pitts; James and Holly Pitts; Sara Stankatis and Kyle Tacy. Rowan; Callan O'Brien; Bronson Emerson Glines; Isabelle; Brayden O'Brien; Reese, Olivia, Aubrie, Harper, Poppy, Hadley, and Mackie Pitts; Kaylin Stankatis and Noah and Gracie Tacy. She joins in rest her beloved stepson, Ricky Hoffman, and her parents.
A Celebration of Deirdre's life will be held at Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel, 604 43rd Street West, Bradenton, FL 34209, on Saturday, April 27, 2024. Friends and family may visit from 9:30 AM, followed by a service at 10:00 AM. For those unable to attend in person, a live stream will be available at https://www.facebook.com/brownandsonsfuneral.
Plans for a future inurnment in Concord, NH in 2025 will be announced at a later date.
In lieu of flowers or donations, please perform an act of kindness on someone and pay it forward, continuing Deirdre's legacy of kindness to others. Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel is in charge of arrangements.
