Shirley F. Van Ness

Shirley Frances Van Ness, age 87 years, long-time Delaware Township, NJ resident, passed away on Friday, May 24, 2024, at the Hunterdon Care Center, Raritan Township, NJ.

Born in Montville, NJ, December 19, 1936, she was the daughter of the late Norman L. and Frances (Schaefer) Van Ness. She had formerly resided in Montville, NJ and attended Boonton High School growing up. She had lived in Delaware Township, NJ since 1968.

Shirley was a self-employed organic, vegetable farmer. For years her parents, then she and her brother operated Van Ness Farm, growing tomatoes, peppers, yellow and green beans, carrots, squash, zucchini, and potatoes. Many local restaurants were known to use their vegetables.

For a time, Shirley also worked as a seamstress. She was renowned for her unbelievable wedding dress making ability and clothing alteration and repair skills.

In addition, Shirley was an original member of The Sergeantsville Farmers' Market.

Finally, she will be remembered as a hard worker who had a wonderful personality and happy disposition.

Surviving is her brother, Richard N. Van Ness, of Delaware Township, NJ.

Funeral services, officiated by Rev. Christopher Small, will take place on Thursday, May 30, 2024, at 12 Noon in the Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home, 147 Main Street, Flemington, NJ. Calling hour will be from 11:00 AM until the time of the service in the funeral home. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Shirley’s name may be made to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 22478, Oklahoma City, OK 73123.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home, 147 Main Street, Flemington, NJ 08822.

For further information or to send an online condolence, please visit her Tribute Wall at www.holcombefisher.com.