Shirley Ligonde

It is with the heaviest of hearts that I, Shara Shirleen Ligonde, share the passing of my beautiful mother, Shirley Castellan-Ligonde, on April 21st, 2025 at the age of 55. She left this world far too soon, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and strength that will never be forgotten.

Born on February 6th, 1970 in Brooklyn New York, Shirley lived her life with a deep and unwavering love for her family, friends, patients, clients, and all animals. Without any hesitations, she enjoyed supporting those around her, proud of her role as a devoted mother, a cherished daughter, a loyal sister, and a fiercely compassionate friend.

Shirley was know as a jack of all trades and enjoyed learning and adding skills to her list. From event planning, hosting and catering, to being a home health aid, learning esthetics and selling real estate. Shirley, as the social butterfly she was, enjoyed every role she entered and left a lasting impact in every life she touched.

Shirley’s extraordinary strength and vibrant energy remained strong even during the most difficult moments. She met life with resilience, grace, and a smile & laugh that could light up the darkest of days. She would do whatever was necessary to lend a helping hand and gave her whole heart to caring for others. Whether she was offering quality time to a friend or client or helping someone she cared about achieve a life-long goal, she lived a life that embodied pride, kindness and compassion.

Her family and friends meant everything to her. Her love was a steady, comforting presence in all our lives, and her wisdom and warmth will continue to guide us through the years ahead.

Shirley Ligonde was preceded in death by her daughter Christine Lawren Ligonde, her father Monelus Castellan, Her sister Maude Castellan, Her brother Mondel Castellan, and her mother Marie Claire Castellan.

She is survived by her daughters, Shara Shirleen Ligonde & Shae Lawren Ligonde and their partners, her sisters Martine Harper, Michaelle Pena, Natasha Eustache, Mona Eustache, her brothers Monell Castellan, Watson Castellan, Alain Eustache, Mondy Eustache, Anthony Karnizan and their spouses and many nieces & nephews, aunts & uncles, cousins & godchildren, and her ex-husband/best friend, Lawrence Ligonde. All of whom will carry her spirit and memory forward with deep love and gratitude.

There will be a repast following the services, where you are welcomed to share memories of Shirley with her favorite music, foods and refreshments. All who loved her are welcome to attend and share in remembering her remarkable life. Regarding clothing, we encourage you to wear a jean jacket and one or a few of Shirley’s favorite colors: Purple, pink, black or white.

Flowers may be sent to the funeral home. Financial contributions may be sent directly to her daughter, Shara, or to your favorite local animal rescue in Shirley’s memory.

Mom, thank you for every hug, every word of encouragement, every act of love. You were — and always will be — the heart of our family. We will miss you more than words could ever express, but we will honor you every day by living with the same compassion, courage, and love that you taught us.

We love you, always & forever.