Shirley Mae Jones was born on March 31st 1934, in the small town of Charleroi, Pennsylvania. She was the only child of Paul and Marjorie Jones who named their daughter after Shirley Temple. At the age of three, the family moved to Smithton, Pa., another beautiful, small town only a few miles away. Smithton rests along the banks of the Youghiogheny River.

Shirley Jones had a carefree childhood in a town filled with friends, and family. Shirley's Grandfather, William B. Jones, founded the Jones Brewery in 1907. Her father and uncle helped run this establishment that is still in operation today.

Shirley's grandfather also owned and operated The Jones Hotel. She attended the local schools and at the age of six Shirley Jones was the youngest member of the Methodist Church Choir.

Recognizing her gifted and natural singing ability, Paul and Marjorie took their daughter to see Ralph Lewando,one of Pittsburgh's top vocal coaches. Once a week, Shirley Jones' father was more than happy to drive her fifty miles to the big city, for her hour-long vocal session./p...