Shirlee M. Rega, 87, of Bedminster passed away on Saturday, February 15, 2025 at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset in Somerville.

She was born in Orange on August 29, 1937, a daughter of the late Joseph and Ethel McCartney.  She grew up in Orange and had lived in Chester before moving to Bedminster in 1985.

Shirlee was a 1953 graduate of Orange High School in Orange.

Mrs. Rega was a secretary employed by Nabisco in Parsippany for 20 years retiring in 2000.

She was a member of the Morris County Association of Retarded Citizens.  Shirlee loved all animals especially dogs and horses having raised horses on her property.  She also enjoyed cooking, entertaining and shopping.

Mrs. Rega is predeceased by a sister, Gloria M. McCartney; and by a brother, Joseph McCartney, Jr.

She is survived by her husband of 70 years, William J. Rega; a son, William J. Rega, Jr. of Flanders; a daughter, Joolie M. Rega of Bedminster; and by a granddaughter, Kayla M. Rega of Pennsylvania.

A memorial mass of remembrance and love will be held at St. Elizabeth Church, 34 Peapack Road, Far Hills on Wednesday, March 19 at 10:30am.  In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to one’s favorite animal charity.  Arrangements are by Layton Funeral Home, 475 Main Street, Bedminster.