Paula J Shapiro

PAULA J. SHAPIRO

Age 79, of Frankfort, passed away Thursday, October 23rd, 2025 at Clarendale of Mokena.

Paula is survived by her loving family, husband of 47 years, Tom Shapiro, children, Kevin Peterson, Keri English, Tianna Shapiro, John (Julie) Shapiro, siblings, Paul (Barb) Moore, Marlene Shirley, Joseph (Brittany) Sarek, grandchildren, Katie Shapiro, Connor Shapiro, Trey Peterson, Alison English and Eve English.

Paula was preceded in death by her mother, Josephine (Gene) Stilts, siblings, Gene Stilts Jr, Steve Stilts, Eve Stilts and Jim Stilts.

Paula lived in the Chicago area for her entire life. She graduated from Crete Monee H.S., worked as a receptionist at Park Forest Savings & Loan, as a secretary in the executive offices of Santa Fe Railroad in Chicago, as an office administrator for a Dr. In Hammond, IN, but her real love was being a homemaker and caring for her family.

She also enjoyed serving her community. She was a member of the Frankfort Planning Commission serving as Chairman for 2 of her 7 years of service. She was a founding member of Quilters Plus quilt club founded in Park Forest in 1979 serving as president from 1990-1993. As a member, she planned many events and classes to provide members with opportunities to learn new techniques and skills, taught interested school-aged children to sew and quilt, and organized quilt shows that offered members and students the chance to display and ‘show off’ their works. Many of her own pieces will long be cherished by her family and friends.

Gardening was another passion of hers that began with growing vegetables for family favorite recipes and later spread to flowers and unique plants which she carefully planned and placed to create a kaleidoscope of colors from spring to fall which earned her beautification awards for many years.

Traveling with friends and family was another joy, especially trips to Saugatuck, Hawaii, and abroad. She will long be remembered by all that met, knew, and loved her for her beautiful smile and joyful laugh. She loved good food, a nice glass of wine, and (being Irish) a pint of Guinness! CHEERS!

Family will receive friends at Kurtz Memorial Chapel, 65 Old Frankfort Way, Frankfort IL 60423 on Sunday, November 2nd, 2025 from 9:00 AM until time of the memorial service at 12:00 PM. Interment, will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Cure Alzheimer’s Fund or St. Peter’s United Church of Christ would be greatly appreciated.