Aletha “Lee” Rose Shanks, 99, of Bridgewater, CT passed away peacefully on the morning of August 18, 2026. Aletha was born on February 12, 1927, in Carmel, NY, daughter to Howard and Marion Baker.

Aletha will be deeply missed by all who loved her and remembered for her joyful and adventurous spirit, generous smile, tight hugs, and engaging whoop of a laugh. She loved to travel and in her younger years could readily be found on a ski slope, setting up shop at a flea market, or being twirled on the dance floor at a country music festival. She was employed as a homecare and psychiatric nurse for many years.

Aletha lived for her family, and was a wonderful and caring wife, mother, and grandmother. Aletha was married on June 7, 1946, to Harry Seymour Shanks, who preceded her in death in 1977.

Aletha is survived by 3 sons: Harry Michael Shanks of Bridgewater, CT, David H. Shanks of New Milford, CT, and Robert J. Shanks of St. Augustine, FL and a daughter: Ivy Lee (Shanks) Tierney of Bridgewater, CT; 8 grandchildren: Stephen Shanks, Mark Shanks, Christy (Shanks) McCutcheon, David Shanks, Jr., Kristel (Shanks) Furno, Deana Lee Tierney May, Robin (Tierney) Lillis, and Joseph Saviano; and 14 great grandchildren: Benjamin Shanks, Tristan Shanks, Katie McCutcheon, Maya McCutcheon, Kacey Shanks, Sydney Shanks, Kirk Burrows, William Lillis, Michael Lillis, Alden May, Ashton May, Alexander May, Elliott Saviano, and Westley Saviano.

Aletha is also survived by her longtime partner, friend, and companion of 49 years, Beryl Barrett of Bridgewater, CT.

She is additionally preceded in death by her parents, her sister, Armontina Angelina (Baker) Judson, and her great-grandson, Shawn Shanks.

In keeping with her wishes, a private family service will be held in October. The family asks that those who knew her remember her as she was when they last saw her, and to cherish the memories they shared.