Shirley Kenter Gilmont of Newport News passed away peacefully on April 17 at Riverside Hospital at the age of 95.

Born on October 18, 1930 in Bridgeport, Connecticut, Shirley was the beloved daughter of Abe and Essie Kenter. She attended Southern Connecticut State University, where she earned her degree in education. She later made her home in Newport News, Virginia, where she lived for 55 years.

Above all else, Shirley was a loving and devoted mother. She was also passionate about education, working as a middle school teacher in the Newport News public school system. She was known for her kindness, patience, and lasting impact on her students, especially those who were new to the country. She had a special gift for making every child feel seen, supported, and capable.

Outside the classroom, Shirley found joy in gardening, reading, staying active, and traveling. She had a lifelong love of learning, which she continued to pursue in retirement by taking life-long learning classes and being involved in book clubs.

Shirley is survived by her daughters Wendy Newman and Sueann Gilmont, her granddaughter, Allison Izaksonas, and her great-grandson Oscar Izaksonas.

At this time, no public memorial service is planned.

Shirley will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and the hundreds of students whose lives she touched.