PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Shirley C. Cossette, 68, passed away on September 29, 2016 peacefully at the home of her sister Alice, with her family by her side.



She was born in Hartford, Conn., daughter of Nita (Pugliese) Eldridge and Michael Castigliego. She moved to Pittsfield 14 years ago to have a fresh start to life and to be close to relatives. She attended Pittsfield Adult Education Center and attended the Salvation Army Church.



Through the years she made strong connections with the people in her community and the congregation at the Salvation Army. She was a strong willed and kind person who loved to laugh and enjoyed taking her dog "Baby" for walks. She made many friends along those walks. She was loved by those that knew her and will be missed by many.

Shirley is survived by her best friend and faithful companion of nine years, her dog "Baby"; her daughter, Nita Proteau of Vernon Conn.; her grandchildren Danielle and Chase; her son, Roland Gundberg of Connecticut; two sisters, Alice Chilcoat and Salvatrice "Theresa" Caldwell of Pittsfield; and her brother, Sebastian Kula of Bristol, Conn.



She is predeceased by a sister, Connie Orfitelli; and a brother, Martin Kula.



Her daughter would like to thank: Hospice Care of the Berkshires, Elder Services, Molari, her aunts and cousin, for the loving care and emotional support during the last weeks of Shirley's life.



Funeral notice: A remembrance of her life will be held on Saturday, October 8, 2016, at 2 p.m. at the Salvation Army, West Street Pittsfield, with a reception following the service. In lieu of flowers, contributions in her memory made be to the Salvation Army. The Dery Funeral Home, 54 Bradford St. Pittsfield, MA 01201 is handling arrangements.