Shirley J. (Franken) Oakes, 91 formerly of Conway, passed away peacefully on January 28, 2026, at her daughter’s home surrounded by her loving family. She was born in Madison, Wisconsin, a daughter of the late Dr. Norman and Jane Franken. She was also preceded by her beloved husband of 40 years, Robert W. Oakes, Sr., her stepson, Robert Oakes, Jr., her daughter-in-law, Lori (McCracken) Liberati and her brother, Henry Franken. Her memory will be kept alive by her surviving family: her brother, Thomas (Judy) Franken of Arkansas, her sister-in-law, Yvonne Franken of Colorado, her daughter, Jane Strano (Leonard Cardinale) of Monaca, her sons, Robert (Denise Schweinsberg) Liberati of Potter Township and Joseph Liberati of Monaca and her daughter-in-law, Brenda Halstead. Her legacy extends to her grandchildren: Elizabeth Strano, Michael (Heather) Strano, Shawn (Julie) Fossett, Sarah Liberati, Jonathon (Melinda) Liberati, and Christopher (Nicole) Liberati; as well as her great-grandchildren: Ella Risch, Domanic and Maci Strano, and James, Wesson, Emmerson, and Avi Liberati.

Shirley’s professional life was marked by her compassionate service as a registered nurse at D.T. Watson, where she retired after years of dedicated care to her patients. She was a devoted member of the former Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church, now part of the Good Samaritan Parish in Ambridge.

As we bid farewell to Shirley J (Franken) Oakes, we celebrate a life beautifully lived—a life filled with love, service, and faith.

The family wishes to thank the outstanding care and compassion Shirley received from Cami, Chelsea, Kelly and Renee from Advanced Hospice.

In accordance with Shirley’s wishes, there will be no services. Arrangements have been entrusted to Simpson Funeral and Cremation Services, 1116 Washington Avenue, Monaca.