E. S. Jefferson "Shirley" ROWBOTHAM

ROWBOTHAM, E. S. (Shirley) Jefferson (nee LePage) March 3, 1923 - March 1, 2013 An energetic and visionary woman, Shirley died peacefully just two days before her 90th birthday in Vernon, BC. Raised in a family of seven children on a farm in rural Quebec, Shirley understood the value of community, cooperation and hard work. Learning the lessons of living in a Protestant family in a Catholic community, Shirley took on challenges with a fearless determination and a Joie de Vivre which touched all who knew her. Leaving Quebec to expand her options, she enjoyed great success as a TV and radio personality in Victoria, BC including guiding little 'do-bees' as Miss Shirley on the live TV children's program Romper Room, providing hints for the home during the Noon Show or doing interviews on the street for CKDA radio. Retiring to the Okanagan in the mid 1970s, Shirley spent many years as a dedicated volunteer in Osoyoos, BC and was a very successful fundraiser for projects including the South Okanagan Hospital and her pet project, transforming an area of roadside ruble into the stunning Pioneer Walkway in Osoyoos. Shirley was very proud of this project and took special pride in the fact that it only required two meetings to make it happen. Her home in Osoyoos was a social hub and had a door plaque given by friends that read "Osoyoos Activity Centre". Any party she organized always included lots of great food, great music and laughter accompanied by some pretty amazing cocktails poured generously by her husband John. Predeceased by husband John Rowbotham in 2002, she leaves a legacy of love and laughter for her children Parker and his wife Cathi Jefferson; and Michelle Jefferson; her grandchildren Sara and David Bynoe, numerous relatives in Ontario and Quebec and friends all over the world.