Obituary of Shirley Gillie

GILLIE, I. Shirley … 78, Halifax, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 17, 2010 in the QEII Health Sciences Center, surrounded by her loving family. Born in Halifax, she was a daughter of the late Hibbert and Florence (Sutherland). Shirley was a devoted mother, grandmother and friend. She loved baking, knitting socks, mittens and hats for her family and she made remarkable mustard pickles, chow and numerous baked goods. Her life was devoted to her grandchildren; she was unselfish and cared for everyone. She loved animals, a good walk and one of her favorite pastimes was going to the casino and scratching bingo tickets. She also devoted much of her time to helping her closest friends at Joseph Howe Manor. Shirley will lovingly be remembered by her sons, James (Roseann), South Carolina; Ronald (Eileen) and Darren (Kathy), both of Halifax; daughters, Sheron Walker (Dan Smith), Lower Sackville; Donna Gillie (Peter), Halifax; grandchildren, James, Ashley, Stephanie and Adam Walker, Shawn, Alison and Colin Densmore, Michelle Gillie and Jason Mayfield; long-time companion, Harold Rafuse; brother, Godfrey (Jean); sisters, Florence and Marilyn (George). She was predeceased by son, Richard; brother, Courtney; sisters, Marie, Gloria and June. Cremation has taken place under the care of J. A. Walker Funeral home (2005) Ltd., 149 Herring Cove Road, Halifax (477-5601), where a celebration of Shirley’s life will be held on Sunday, November 21 from 2-5 PM. Interment to be held at a later date. The family gratefully declines flowers; donations in Shirley’s memory may be made to the IWK.