Shirlee Lynn (Mayo) Eldridge, 78, of Middletown, wife of the late Richard Eldridge, Sr., died Wednesday January 28, 2026. She was born in Washington DC, daughter of the late Floyd "Buzz" and Lillian (Haleman) Mayo. Shirlee worked as a CNA for 42 years at local nursing homes including Luther Ridge and Chesterfield.

Shirlee is survived by her sons, Gary Johnson and his wife Wendy of Middletown, Richard Eldridge, Jr. and his wife Melissa of Middletown,  daughter, Christine Cormier and her husband Yvon of West Haven, brother Michael Mayo of NC, six grandchildren, Elijah Rodrigue , Grace Johnson, Jordan Eldridge, Anais Cormier, Madison Eldridge, Brianna Eldridge as well as several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband Richard, daughter, Megan, and sister Jackie Bonk.

Visitation will be held on Friday Feb. 13th from 10 to 11 a.m. followed by a funeral service at 11 a.m. at Biega Funeral Home, 3 Silver St. Middletown. Burial will follow at the State Veterans' Cemetery.  To share memories or express condolences online please visit www.biegafuneralhome.com.