Jul 26, 2025
Robert “Bob” Pokoj
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our mother, Shirley Ann Gervase, who departed life peacefully on July 24th, 2025 at the age of 86.
Shirley was born Jan. 11, 1939 in Dunkirk, NY to Alfred & Rose (Scaccia) Gervase. Wife of the late Frank J. DeJohn. Whom she was married to for 67 Years. She graduated from Fredonia High School with honors.
Shirley spent her early career as an attorney assistant, bookkeeper, tax accountant, and later as a local business owner of the Red Barn, Goby Dicks, Lions Gate, DJ’s Hot Dog Stand, NY New York SteakHouse, and DeJohn’s Italian Spaghetti House. She was the backbone of the businesses. Well known for her Mama DeJohn’s Spaghetti and Meatballs.
Shirley found joy in family gatherings, she enjoyed reading, music, sailing, watching game shows, playing bingo, going to the casino, and her love of traveling especially on cruises.
Loving mother of: Frank (loribeth)DeJohn, Michael DeJohn, Randy (Samantha) DeJohn, and Lisa (Randy) Mancuso. Grandmother of Joey and Johnny Scandurra, Ashley (Nate Smith) DeJohn, Jesse DeJohn. Great grandmother of Landyn DeJohn-Meyer, Aria, Eliana DeJohn-Smith, and Oliva Smith.
Survived by one sister Marlene (Paul) Knaus and many nieces and nephews.
Preceded in death by her husband Frank DeJohn. Three sisters Carmela Frame, Connie Kaczmarek, and Linda Bates.
Special thanks to her caregiver Marybeth DeJohn (niece). To all the nurses on 2A Chautauqua County Home. (Maria and Erin) Hospice nurses and to all that gave support and help.
Shirley’s kindness, generosity, and love for her family will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew her.
Relatives and friends are welcome to attend Calling Hours on Saturday, July 26, 2025 from 10-12 p.m. at R. Mackowiak Funeral Home, Inc; 56 East
Doughty Street, Dunkirk, NY. Prayer services will begin at Noon. Interment will be held privately in St. Joseph’s Cemetery.
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Shirley Ann Gervase – observertoday.com
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