SHIRLEY JOAN READ

SHIRLEY JOAN (SOUTH) READ

March 8, 1926 - December 30, 2016

Shirley was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba to Herbert and Emily South. The family moved to Vancouver when Shirley was two and settled in Kitsilano.

Predeceased by her husband of 62 years, William "Bill", son Deryk, and sister June Tucker (South). She is survived by her children: Richard (Stella), Lance, Heather, Holly (Stephen), Carla (Brian), Derek (Wang-Jin). Grandchildren: Christopher (Kate), Jeremy, Justin (Amy), Taisha, Stuart (Catie), Thomas, Sean (Maddy), Andrew, Spencer, Garett, Liam, and Alec. Great grandchildren: Daniel, Isobella, Felix, Angus, and Logan. Daughter-in-law Cathy. Nephews and niece: Graham and Alan Tucker, Jim Kirkham and Patricia Barron (Kirkham).

Shirley attended General Gordon Elementary and graduated from Kitsilano Secondary in 1945. One of her proudest memories was raising funds for WWII selling Victory Bonds. For her efforts she was awarded the title "Victory Bond Queen". After high school Shirley worked at the Famous Cloak and Suit Company, Birks, and as a dental surgeon's assistant.

Love blossomed in grade 5 at General Gordon for Shirley and Bill. They were married in 1949 and purchased their family home in 1952. Shirley was a caring and loving mother to her family of seven children, always listening and encouraging them in everything they did. Active in her community, she attended Canadian Memorial United Church, taught Sunday school, was involved with Scouting and the PTA at both Lord Tennyson and Kitsilano. She also volunteered for more than 25 years with the Vancouver Museum and Planetarium.

Mom was an avid reader, photographer, baker, and loved handicrafts. Mom loved everything to do with nature, and birds in particular. She enjoyed yearly camping trips with her family and many unique holidays with her husband. Family and friends were important to her and she especially loved the time she was able to spend with her grandchildren. She was known as the family storyteller and had an amazing and creative memory. Her positive, sunny disposition and warm smile will be missed by all who knew her.

Mom's last year started with a 90th birthday celebration in March and we were so thankful that she was able to enjoy her favourite holiday, Christmas, at home with family.

In 2012, Shirley and Bill established an endowment to the City of Vancouver for a picnic table in the park at Trafalgar Beach. This was their special beach. If you are in the area please take the time to sit and remember Shirley.

We would like to thank the BC Cancer Agency for their care and compassion during mom's last months.

A service will be held at Canadian Memorial United Church at 15th and Burrard, on Friday, February 3, 2017 at 2pm.