On April 25, 2019 Shirley Isabel Brown was embraced in the loving arms of Jesus and reunited with the love of her life, Donald.
She was born March 31, 1928 in Vancouver to William McMillan and Edna Bertha (Welch) Carmichael. After graduating from Lord Byng H.S. she went on to get her Nursing degree at Vancouver General Hospital and UBC followed by further training in public health at McGill in Montreal.
She became reacquainted with Don there and they were married at First Baptist Church Vancouver on Sept 12, 1957. After a short but happy time as a nurse, Shirley became mom to daughters Heather and Moira and began career volunteering (CGIT, Canadian Cancer Society, CV Dragon Boat Society, local schools & churches, painting/pottery clubs...) in many towns and cities across Canada.
In "retirement" she and Don moved to the Comox Valley where she redoubled her efforts and was honoured for her many volunteer affiliations with a Citizen of the Century award. Shirley was "mom" to everyone and her home was always open to those who needed a meal or place to stay. Her love is legendary.
Shirley was predeceased by Don (November 23, 2018) and is going to be profoundly missed by daughter Heather Schmidt (Norm), Moira Proskin (Sam); grandchildren Bryna, Graeme (Kelsey), Cameron (Kelsey), Rachel; sister Edna Mae Slade, nephews and nieces and many special friends.
The care staff at CVSV Residential Care grew to cherish her sparkling eyes, kind words and great hugs.
A Celebration of her Life will be held at a later date. Donations to the Comox Valley Dragon Boat Society, Canadian Cancer Society or a charity of your choice are encouraged.
"For me, to live is Christ, but to die is gain!" Philippians 1:21