Shirley Clarice Clerico

Shirley Clarice Franklin was born to Pauline and Levi Franklin on September 19, 1924, in Los Angeles California. She was their only child. Due to his job with the Southern Pacific Railroad, Shirley’s father moved the family to Bakersfield when Shirley was just five years old. Shirley loved telling stories of her family’s years in Bakersfield, which included eating burgers at Bloomfield’s , walking to the Tejon Theater with her mother, life during The Great Depression, and the beginning of WWII.
Shirley was in the first four-year class to attend East Bakersfield High School. She was a cheerleader and formed many life-long friendships, including with her dear friend Connie, who would eventually become her sister in law. This is also where she met the love of her life, Clarence (Bud) Clerico. Buddy was the shy, good-looking boy who sat in front of Shirley during Chemistry class. Their first date included a wild, and probably foolish, car ride 100 miles from home to rescue Bud’s brother and his broken down car. Thankfully the rescue was successful, as was the first date. They were married October 18, 1948. That was the day she went from being an only child to having brothers and sisters; Leota, Lawrence, Leona, Robert and Joanne.
Shirley and Bud spent their entire married life in Bakersfield, raising 3 children; Kirk, Cynthia and Brian. During the 1950’s she was one of the few women who worked outside the home. She worked many years as a stenographer with Southern Pacific Railroad, while still managing to have a spotless home and be a wonderful mother. In later years, after the children were raised, she started a new career in real estate.
Shirley is survived by her devoted husband, Bud Clerico; her children and their spouses Cindy and Sam Smith, Brian and Tina Clerico, and Kirk Clerico; her grandchildren Casey, Amanda, Cameron, Serena, and Stella; and her great grandchildren Kimberly, Ruth, Sarah, Celia and Mallory.
A service will be held at Kern River Family Mortuary on Friday October 11, 2013 at 10:00. Graveside service will follow at the Bakersfield National Cemetery at 30338 East Bear Mountain Blvd
Arvin, CA 93203. In lieu of flowers please send donations to Mercy Hospice.