Shirley Ann Binkley, 90, of Allentown, died June 11, 2026.

Born in Easton on June 27, 1935, she was the daughter of the late Edward H. Bentz, Sr. and Lucy (Dickes) Bentz and the youngest of 11 children.

On June 16, 1956, she married Ronald K. Binkley, and together they shared nearly 50 years of marriage until Ronald’s passing in 2005.

Through their years together, they built a loving home and family and created memories that continue to be cherished by those who knew them.

She was a woman of creativity, warmth, and quiet strength.

A published poet, her work was featured in numerous poetry collections and enjoyed by readers far beyond her family and friends.

She was a regular contributor to The Press with her poems.

Through her writing, she expressed her thoughts, observations, and love of life, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire others.

She enjoyed puzzles and proudly displayed several of her completed favorites on her wall.

She loved playing the organ, appreciated simple beauty, and had a special fondness for the color red and for roses.

She also took great pride in her career at Air Products, where she worked for many years.

Above all else, she treasured her family.

She will be remembered for her kindness, creativity, poetry, puzzles, love of family, and the warmth she brought into the lives of others.

Her life was a blessing, her memory a treasure, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

She is survived by sons, Chris Alan and Scott Michael, and his wife, Jamie, of Longswamp Township; daughter, Michele Renee Curatola and husband, Daniel, of Allentown; grandchildren, Dylan-Anthony William Wagner, Evan Scott Binkley, and Myka Elizabeth Binkley; sister, Mary; brother, Freddy; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and friends.

In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by eight brothers and sisters.

The family extends its sincere gratitude to the nurses, caregivers, and hospice staff who provided her with compassionate care and comfort during her final days.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. June 20 at the J.S. Burkholder Funeral Home, 16th and Hamilton Sts., Allentown.

A calling hour will be held 10-11 a.m. in the funeral home.

Condolences may be offered at www.jsburkholder.com.