Shirley Virginia (Bailey) Bobela

Shirley Virginia Bobela, 83, of Grafton, peacefully passed away on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, at Tygart Center Nursing Home. She was born in Rosemont, West Virginia, on January 21, 1942, a daughter of the late Carl Waller and Thelma Nadine Marple Bailey. Shirley was reunited in death with her beloved husband, James Bobela, who preceded her on November 12, 2021.

A graduate of Flemington High School, Shirley spent many years working as a waitress, where her warm smile and friendly spirit made all feel welcome. She also proudly served her community as a Taylor County Poll Worker. A devoted member of St. Augustine Catholic Church, Shirley and her husband were both recipients of the Salt of Life. Shirley was active in the Women’s Guild and generously volunteered at the mission, always ready to lend a helping hand to those in need.

In her quieter moments, Shirley found joy in painting, creating thoughtful gifts that have become treasured keepsakes for those she loved. She enjoyed cooking and took great pleasure in sharing homemade meals and sweet treats with family and friends. Above all else, Shirley’s greatest happiness came from her family, and she deeply cherished every moment spent with them.

Left to honor her memory are her four children, Stephanie Pysell (Steve), James M. Bobela (Jenny), Charlie Bobela (Catina), and Michael Bobela; six grandchildren, Jaime Bobela (Gayle), Laura Kennedy (Stephen), Katherine Carpenter (Mark), Josh Bobela (Ashley), Jazmin Bobela, Emily Poling, and Timmy Seese; five great-grandchildren, Colton, Griffin, Blake, Eden, and Gabreilla; two sisters, Elladean George and Imogean Bennett; one brother, Robert H. Bailey (Marian); along with several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In addition to her parents and husband, Shirley was preceded in death by one brother, Don Wm. Carl Bailey; two brothers-in-law, Dana George and William Bennett; and one sister-in-law, Margaret Ann Bailey.

Family and friends will be received at Bartlett Funeral Home, 202 McGraw Avenue, Grafton, on Friday, December 26, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. until noon, the hour of the Catholic Funeral Liturgy, with Father Babu Joseph serving as Celebrant. Interment will follow at the West Virginia National Cemetery.

Online condolences may be extended to the family at www.bartlettfuneralhomewv.com. Bartlett Funeral Home is honored to serve the Bobela family.

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