Kentville, NS
January 18, 2024
Shirley Anne Ruth Lloyd, age 54, passed away peacefully at home in Kentville on January 18, 2024, surrounded by loved ones.
When we think of Shirley Anne, we think of "Shir", "Auntie Shirry", or "Jeep Girl". We remember and cherish her kindness and generous nature. Shirley’s presence was captivating, and her smile could instantly warm your heart. She was well known for her long flowing hair, her great sense of humour, and the empathy and compassion she gave freely. Those closest to her truly felt her genuine love and respect.
She cultivated a life full of love for family and friends with a special place in her heart for her partner, Michael, and her dogs. Shirley found enjoyment in travelling, good music, watching movies with a bag of buttery popcorn, eating a delicious meal with a side of fries, hiking, going to the beach or seashore, and driving her Jeeps.
Shirley’s style was impeccable. She adored shopping and may have needed more than one closet for her many clothes and shoes, but that was okay because a girl likes options!
Shirley Anne was well-respected in the community for her work as a real estate agent. Her impressive career with Royal LePage Atlantic spanned over 20 years. During that time, she received many prestigious awards. She was honoured multiple times with the President’s Gold Award, the Award of Excellence, and the Director’s Platinum Award. Dedication and passion were apparent in all aspects of her work and clients often became lifelong friends.
Above all the accolades, Shirley was proudest of her daughter, Rachel. They had a unique and unbreakable bond as mother and daughter, filled with unconditional love. She spoke fondly of the many special moments they shared together, like camping trips and singing "You are my Sunshine". Shirley admitted that she wasn’t much for singing on key, but Rachel had the voice of an angel to balance it out. She was so proud of the beautiful, kind, thoughtful, strong woman she has become. "We are born of love; love is our mother." – Rumi
Words she lived by that were a hallmark of her positive mindset ring true in her favourite phrase: "hope for the best and handle the rest." As a tribute to Shirley, the next time you see a "real" Jeep on the road (not a "grocery getter", as Shirley said), be sure to give the Jeep Wave, and think of her driving with the roof off, singing loudly, living life to the fullest, with her hair blowing in the wind!
Left to mourn are her loving daughter, Rachel Smith; partner, Michael Shewchuk; mother, Ruth (Burgher) Lloyd; sisters, Sarah "Sally" Walsh, Beth Lloyd, Mary Lloyd; Bichon Frisé, Sammy; best friend, Kerina Dykstra; and much loved nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins.
She was predeceased by her father, Frederick "Ted" Lloyd; brother, David Gordon Lloyd; and first puppy, Cricket.
There will be no funeral, at Shirley’s request. A private family graveside service will be held in the Spring. The family wishes to acknowledge the compassionate care of Dr. Gunn, Dr. Morgan and the QEII Staff, Annapolis Valley Palliative Care Program, Annapolis Valley VON, VRH Oncology Unit, and everyone who offered comfort to Shirley during her illness. If you wish to make a donation in her memory, please consider the Cancer Care for Patients - Valley Regional Hospital, Chrysalis House, VON, or a charity of your choice.
"She was spiritual and knew better than anyone that souls do not disappear. Light does not disappear."
-Jessica Anderson, Editor, Christy Ottaviano Books
