Shirley Smallwood

It is with heavy hearts that the family of Shirley Smallwood sadly announce the passing of their beloved mother, grandmother and great grandmother on Sunday, January 29, 2012 in her 74th year. Shirley was born November 9, 1937 in the tiny community of Boom Road, New Brunswick. Shirley was one of thirteen children who grew up in rural New Brunswick. It was there that she met and married Willis Smallwood in 1955. In 1958 they moved to Ontario and later settled in Thunder Bay where they raised their six children. Shirley devoted her life to raising her family. She enjoyed knitting and would always provide warm mittens and socks to all friends, family members or visitors that called. She will always be remembered by special friend and neighbour Donna (Laurie) Wilson who spent countless hours together knitting, watching hockey and sharing a cup of coffee. Shirley's children, grandchildren and great grandchildren were a tremendous source of pride and she would always have kind words to offer them. Everyone enjoyed plenty of Nana's funny stories about the good old days. There was always a laugh to be shared, a hug to be given, a hand to be held. Shirley will be lovingly remembered by her children Shelly, Kenda Prestidge, Brad (Trina), Darren (Andriana) and Kandy (Tim) Smith. Shirley is also survived by sisters Dorothea (James) Nolan, Thelma (Irvin) Matchett, Helen (Pearly) Waye, Kitty (Gerald) McAllister, Betty (Jack) Brown, Grace (Courtney) Carleton, Treva (Brian) Melvin, Leva (Ralph) Porter and Della (Barry) Hunt; Brothers Ted (Lois) and Glen (Carol); Grandchildren Ben, Jodi, Buddy, Hailey, Madison, Caitlin and Nathan; Great-grandchildren Peyton, Bella, Alexander, Jazmyn and Kennedy, and numerous nieces and nephews. Shirley was predeceased by her parents Ruby Angeline and Stillman Allison, her husband Willis, their son Wade and her brothers Merton and Arnott. As per Shirley's wishes cremation has taken place with an internment service at Mountain View Cemetery to be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, if friends so desire, donations in memory of Shirley may be made to TBRHSC or the charity of their choice. Special thanks to the nurses and Dr. Goertzen who provided such wonderful care during mom's brief illness. "