Shirley Sims Saltaformaggio

September 5, 1936 – August 29, 2025

Shirley Sims Saltaformaggio tranquilly entered her eternal rest on August 29, 2025, at Our Lady of the Angels in Bogalusa, La at the age of 88.

Shirley began her life in Burnsville, MS on September 5, 1936, as the daughter of Leonard and Ethel Sims.  Her mother attended a Shirley Temple movie, hence the decision to name their beautiful baby girl "Shirley."

Shirley moved to Bogalusa, La at the age of 5.  She attended Bogalusa schools graduating from Bogalusa High School in May of 1955.  While attending high school, she met Joseph Saltaformaggio who she later married on March 8, 1959.

After graduation, Shirley began a 30-year career in banking with employment at First State Bank.  Upon retirement, she became the owner of The Treasure House, a gift and bridal registry shop.  She was the "Guiding Light" for so many young brides who were glad to have her advice and expertise.  Many customers were happy to get their "Snow Babies" and limited edition "Easter Eggs" from The Treasure House.

Shirley was active with many organizations including the Red Cross Board, the American Heart Association and the Annunciation Catholic School Board. She was a charter member of one of the first ladies Mardi Gras groups in the early 1980's, Les Cheres Amies.  Shirley was a longtime member and supporter of Annunciation Catholic Church in Bogalusa, LA.

Shirley's laugh was delightful and memorable as was her meatballs and spaghetti, a treasured recipe from her husband's family.  Friends and neighbors were the recipients of her wonderful culinary talents. Shirley was known as a "Giver of Gifts" and delighted in sharing her love and friendship.

Shirley was preceded in death by Leonard and Ethel Sims, Joe and Katie Saltaformaggio, sister Sue (Larry) Gill, niece Louise Gill, and son-in-law David Arceneaux.

Those left to cherish her memories are Joseph Saltaformaggio, daughter April Saltaformaggio Arceneaux, and grandchildren Catherine Arceneaux and Matthew (Lori) Arceneaux.

Shirley's family thanks you for the kind expressions of sympathy and love shown to them in recent months.  Your continued prayers will be treasured by them in the days to come.

September 5th would have been Shirley's 89th birthday.  On this day, the family asks you to be extra kind to someone who needs a special smile or hug!

A Funeral Service will be held at Anunciation Catholic Church, Bogalusa, LA on Saturday, September 6, 2025, at 11:00 A.M. with Fr. Angel Diaz officiating. Entombment to follow in the Sanctuary of Peace Mausoleum in Ponemah Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Joseph Bergeron, David Duke, Paul Haire, Patrick Miller, Billy Penton and Shane Scott.

Honorary Pallbearers are Joe and Sharon Ball, Mary Boulware, Sam and Jackie Cefalu, Don Fendlason, Bryan and Cherie Genco, Stephen Genco, Jackson Miller, Don and Georgia Spiers, Jimmy and Martha Strain, Nancy Thomas, and Barbara Varnado.

A visitation will be held at the church on Saturday morning from 9:30 A.M. until service time at 11:00 A.M.

In memory of Shirley, please consider making a donation to the Bogalusa Heart Study Fund at Tulane University's Celia Scott Weatherhead School of Public Health & Tropical Medicine in lieu of flowers.

Donations can be sent to

1440 Canal Street, Suite 2400, New Orleans, LA 70112. Please note "Bogalusa Heart Study" on the check. Donations can also be made online at http://giving.tulane.edu/sphtm

To view/sign guestbook, please visit: pooleritchiefuneralhome.com