Shirley Ann (Silvestri) Pirie

A Life of Grace, Devotion, and Unwavering Love.

 It is with deep sorrow and profound love that we announce the passing of Shirley (Silvestri) Pirie, born November 23, 1942, devoted daughter, wife, mother, gramma and friend went home to be with the Lord on July 8, 2025, surrounded by the love of her cherished family. Shirley’s life was a radiant example of kindness, grace, and enduring faith and a life lived not for self, but for others.

Born and raised in Providence, Rhode Island, Shirley was the devoted daughter of the late Albert and Tina (Ferrucci) Silvestri, whose strong Italian roots instilled in her a love of family, tradition, and faith. From a young age, Shirley lived a life of unmistakable joy that would go on to define her presence in the lives of so many.

Shirley was the beloved wife of the late Victor J. Pirie, her one and only love, with whom she built a beautiful life filled with laughter, purpose, and a home that radiated warmth to all who entered. Their marriage was a powerful example of true partnership—rooted in faith, respect, and mutual admiration.

Shirley is survived by her loving brother Dr. Kenneth Silvestri and his wife Lori, with whom she shared a close bond of mutual respect, loyalty, love and laughter. Their relationship was filled with treasured memories, and Kenneth remained a steadfast presence throughout Shirley’s life.

As a mother, Shirley poured herself wholeheartedly into raising her three children: Laurie Pirie McCarthy (and her husband Paul), Craig Pirie (and his wife Tawny), and Tami Pirie Ricci (and her husband Anthony), and they were her life’s greatest joy. She was deeply proud of her grandchildren, Dr. Paul McCarthy III, Victor J. Pirie II ( and his wife Allison), Andrew Pirie, Albert McCarthy (and his wife Holly), Chandler Pirie, Brandon Pirie and her great grandchild Theodoro Pirie, and cherished every moment with them and loved being called Gramma. She never missed a birthday, holiday, or milestone, ensuring every occasion was filled with love . The dining room table in her home was more than a place to eat, it was a space where stories and laughter were shared with immediate and extended family. Shirley’s love extended far beyond her immediate family. She never hesitated to lend a helping hand, offer a listening ear, or speak a word of encouragement. Her presence alone could brighten a room, and her radiant smile will be remembered always.

Shirley was the former co-owner of Silvestri Leasing and Ocean State Tire Company. Shirley was known for her generous spirit and active involvement in the community. She served as both the Women’s League President and Junior League Director at the Alpine Country Club. She gave freely of her time, talents and resources to causes and people she believed in. Shirley also held a deep and enduring faith and was a devoted parishioner of Holy Apostles Church in Cranston, RI. Her family and friends will remember her as someone who gave the very best of herself.

As we say goodbye to such a beautiful and kind-hearted woman, we find comfort in knowing her legacy lives on in every act of love, every family meal, and her generosity. Though we mourn deeply, we also celebrate the extraordinary life she lived, which was a life of love, laughter, joy, and enduring faith.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made in Shirley’s honor to Friends Way, RI’s only bereavement center dedicated to serving children and teens. Located at 765 West Shore Road, Warwick, RI 02886

https://www.friendsway.org/donate

We love you, Shirley. Your light continues to shine in all of us.

May you rest in eternal peace, forever wrapped in the arms of your beloved Victor and the Savior you so faithfully followed.

Her funeral will be held on Saturday at 9:30am from the NARDOLILLO FUNERAL HOME & Crematory 1278 Park Avenue, Cranston, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11am in Holy Apostles Church Pippin Orchard Road, Cranston.  Burial will be in St. Ann Cemetery, Cranston. VISITING HOURS will be on Friday from 4:00pm to 7:00pm.