Shirley Seyboth

Shirley (Butler) Seyboth passed peacefully on January 5, 2026 at the age of 79, surrounded by her loving family. Shirley was a beloved mother, grandmother, aunt and friend who will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

She was the daughter of the late Zell and Edith (Yule) Butler. Shirley was predeceased by her beloved husband, Donald “Buzzy” Seyboth, her brothers George Butler, Zell Allen Butler and sister Sylvia Butler Vaughn.

Born in Cooperstown, NY on October 7, 1946, Shirley’s family lived on a farm. She often spoke of the simpler times and fun experiences of farm life, such as riding horses and raising pigs and cows. Eventually the family settled in Oneonta. Shirley told stories of happy memories there; going to see Santa Claus at Bresee’s department store, and of course, eating at Brooks Barbeque, which was a real treat!

Shirley graduated from Oneonta High School class of 1963. She then moved to Albany, where she furthered her education at the Albany Medical College and became an x-ray technician, like her mother. She felt a sense of pride in helping others. After her retirement, she and her husband opened an antique business which they owned for many years.

On November 15, 1969, Shirley married Donald “Buzzy” Seyboth. During their marriage, they enjoyed traveling together, attending NASCAR races and buying and selling antiques. Traveling to Hawaii for their 40th anniversary was a cherished adventure.

She embraced Halloween and took great pleasure in being part of the spooky happenings, although Christmas was her favorite holiday. She often reminisced about how she used to decorate her home with six different Christmas trees and hundreds of santas.

Being a member of the Henderson-General Nicholas Herkimer Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution was a treasured role for her. Shirley was very proud of her ancestors as they fought for and won America’s independence. She’s always been a true patriot.

Her family was her greatest love. She looked forward to holidays and birthdays. Shirley was the most dedicated fan at the local ball field. As the “Queen of Diamonds”, she never missed any of her family member’s games. She not only cheered them on, but their entire team with her signature cowbell. More cowbell!

Passionate about dogs, she spent many years volunteering at the Homeward Bound Dog Rescue of NY, ensuring all puppies and dogs found their forever homes and had loving new parents. Whenever she had the chance, she fostered the puppies and dogs. She took joy in making blankets for each pup to take to their new home so they would feel cozy and loved.

She cherished her friends. The color green was her favorite, along with sushi and lobster, country music, sunflowers and pink flamingos. The Mets were her team.

Crafting, playing solitaire and games on her phone were some of her favorite activities. Spending time at her camp at Sunset Bay on Sacandaga Lake was her preferred way to enjoy her summers. Playing bingo with her friends, driving her golf cart to visit others and taking her dog to the park were things she looked forward to. She enjoyed “floating” with her friends in the lake and paddling around in her kayak.

A strong and determined person, Shirley was never one to quit. She was honest to a fault. Her laugh was contagious. She had a quick wit, was adventurous and loved a good prank. A loving and giving person, she was very generous to those she cared for. Shirley was very loved and respected by all.

Shirley is survived by her son Brett (Jennifer Marozas-Seyboth) Seyboth of Rotterdam; nephew, Stephen (Michelle Brown-Keyer) Keyer of Colonie; niece, Dawn (Shannon) Cotton of Rotterdam; nieces, Tracie Butler Smith , Jacqueline Lee-Anderson, Victoria Lee, Jessica Campbell, Melanie Butler, Sarah Butler; nephews, Troy Butler, Kristopher Butler, William Lee and Lance Butler; grandsons, Bryce and Dylan Seyboth; step-grandchildren Ashley and Andrew Gendron; great-niece, Kathryn Bramer and great-nephew, Jordan (fiancee Alexis Lott) Cotton; great-great nephew JJ Hawkins, Jr.; her beloved dog, Kobi; her close friend, Doris Rathbun; and many other friends.

Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, January 14, 2026 from 3pm to 5 pm at New Comer Cremations & Funerals, 343 New Karner Rd, Colonie, NY 12205. A memorial service to immediately follow at 5pm.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Mr. Mo Project; mrmoproject.com; 641 Grooms Rd #235, Clifton Park, NY 12065; (518) 847-1277.

“This organization’s mission is to rescue senior dogs from shelters nationwide so they can live out their lives in a loving home setting.”