Shirley A. (Bishop) Sokol

Shirley A. (Bishop) Sokol, 93, a lifelong resident of Haverhill, passed away peacefully May 1, 2025 at Aspen Hill Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center.

She was born on November 10, 1931 to the late Fred and Laura (Rogers) Bishop. Raised and educated in Haverhill, she was among the first students to attend Sacred Hearts School in Bradford and went on to enter religious life with the Sisters of Presentation of Mary in Hudson NH as Sister Francoise Ami. Shirley devoted 22 years to this calling, and at the age of 39 she returned to secular life, where she later met and married Henry S. Sokol who sadly passed away in 1996.

It was at this time that Shirley began to take art lessons and discovered a hidden talent for painting, producing dozens of amazing works of art which she generously shared with friends and family. The subject and skill of her paintings show a sensitivity to family bonds, an appreciation for the beauty of nature, and an overall delightful sense of the world around her.

During her long and productive life, Shirley was a teacher in the Haverhill School System, a Eucharistic Minister, compassionate Home Health Aide, hospital volunteer, devoted daughter and wife, loving sister, beloved aunt and good friend to many. She had a special bond with her nephew D. Eric Bishop. Her gentle dedication and patience helped him to meet the challenges of autism with a positive outlook and won her the respect and gratitude of all. Shirley was truly a great lady.

Shirley was predeceased by her husband, Henry S. Sokol, brothers Frederick and Donald Bishop, and sisters Elaine and Beverly Bishop. She is survived by her sister Carol A (Bishop) Bradley of Largo, FL, and dozens of nieces, nephews and cousins. She will be sadly missed by all.

Family and friends are invited to calling hours on Wednesday, May 7, 2025 from 4 to 7 P.M. at Paul C. Rogers Family Funeral Home, 334 Main Street, Haverhill. A Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, May 8, 2025 at 11 A.M. at Sacred Hearts Church in Bradford followed by interment at Elmwood Cemetery.

For those wishing to make memorial donations, please consider Harborside Hospice LLC, 241 Winter Street, Haverhill, MA 01830.