Shirley Ellen Kuchay

January 22, 1935 – January 11, 2026

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Shirley Ellen Kuchay, age 90, on January 11, 2026 in Salmon Brook Rehabilitation Center, Glastonbury, CT.

Shirley was born on January 22, 1935 in San Diego, CA to Lawrence and Marie Radcliffe Herder. She grew up in the Lemon Grove section of San Diego and went on to Grossmont High School. Shirley then enter college at San Diego State University as a music major which is where she met her future husband, Conrad S. Kuchay (2021). 

Known for positivity, our dedicated Mother was a gifted Seamstress, bowler, and horse lover who was known for her kindness, generosity, positivity and spirit, not to mention a gifted ballroom dancer and flutist. 

Shirley is survived by her brother Carl Herder (CA), children, Katie (AZ), Robert (Suzanne) (VA), Laura Rohe (NM), Paul (CT) and Daryl (NY). Grandchildren: Scott Molaison (NE), Theresa and Christopher Rohe.  She will be deeply missed by friends, extended family and community members. 

As an immensely private person, Shirley’s final wishes were to be cremated and her ashes are to be spread in LaJolla Cove, CA. 

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the American Cancer Society in Shirley’s memory.