Shirley Hornbeck, a beloved educator, community leader, and cherished family member, passed away peacefully on March 24, 2026, in The Villages, Florida. She was 89 years old.
Born on April 26, 1936, in Monticello, New York, Shirley was the daughter of Della and John Smalls. She grew up in Monticello and graduated from Monticello High School in 1954. Shirley pursued her passion for teaching at SUNY Cortland, where she earned her degree in Early Childhood Education in 1958.
She began her career as a first-grade teacher in Liberty and Monticello before spending 27 years as a kindergarten teacher at Emma C. Chase Elementary School in Wurtsboro. Her commitment to education extended beyond the classroom. After retiring in 2008, she established an annual scholarship for girls pursuing college education and later created another scholarship for boys entering trade professions in memory of her late husband George.
In recognition of her remarkable contributions to education and the community, Shirley was inducted into the Monticello Central School Hall of Distinction in 2023-a testament to her enduring legacy. Shirley’s vibrant personality extended far beyond her professional life. She was deeply involved in organizing events that brought people together, including class reunions and the monumental 100th birthday celebration of Monticello High School.
A dedicated member of the Catskill Regional Medical Center Auxiliary for over four decades, she played a pivotal role in organizing the annual Antiques in August fundraiser, house tours, and fashion shows. After retiring, Shirley and George relocated to Summerfield, Florida. Shirley continued to share her love of teaching by tutoring children through their church. She also immersed herself in golf and tennis communities. Notably, her tennis team won the USTA state championship in Florida in 2008. Shirley’s faith was central to her life as an active parishioner of Monticello United Methodist Church. Her fun-loving spirit and vivacious energy were matched by her sense of style-she was always a fashionista with a radiant smile.
Shirley was predeceased by her loving husband of 57 years, George Hornbeck; her parents Della and John Smalls: sister Barbara Fontana; brother-in-law Ted Fontana; brother-in-law Billy Resnick and brothers Raymond and Richard Smalls. She is survived by her sister Patsy Resnick; sister-in-law Janet Smalls; and beloved nieces and nephews Dan Smalls, Josh Altman, Margo Smalls, Ryan Smalls, Lily Smalls, Madeline Geraci, Randy Resnick and Daniel Resnick; many great nieces and nephews; and her friend Wayne Blue.
Shirley’s legacy is one of love, laughter, hard work, and unwavering dedication to those around her. Her memory will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her. A private burial will be held at the family’s request.
Any donations in Shirley’s name should be made to the United Methodist Church of Monticello, 445 Broadway, Monticello, NY 12701.