Shirley Justina Anderson Walker

Shirley Justina Anderson Walker, 99, of Hollis, Maine, passed away peacefully on February 27, 2026, leaving behind nearly a century of devotion to family, friendship, and community.

Born on February 15, 1927, at the family home in Buxton, Maine, she was the tenth child of Ernest Linwood Anderson and Mary Brackett Anderson. Shirley grew up in a lively household of ten children and often said she had “the best parents anyone could ever have.” Her early years were marked by resilience and pride, especially as five of her brothers served in active military duty during World War II, stationed throughout the world.

Over time, Shirley became the last surviving sibling of her beloved family. She was predeceased by her brothers Lawrence, Clyde, Ernest Jr., William, Carl, and Robert, and her sisters Arlene, Beryl, Doris, and Baby Ruth. She also endured the profound loss of her husband Norman, Sr. and her cherished son, Norman, Jr., who passed away at the age of 19. Within the last two months, she also experienced the loss of two of her oldest nieces, Nancy Gallant and Joyce Nelson, who were like sisters to her and held a very special place in her heart. Though she outlived so many she loved, she carried her grief with quiet strength and remained steadfast in her devotion to family.

Shirley dedicated 45 years of her professional life as office manager of Saco River Telegraph and Telephone Company. Practical, dependable, and deeply loyal, she formed lifelong friendships with her coworkers — relationships she treasured for decades.

Family was everything to Shirley. In recent years, she initiated a monthly tradition lovingly known as “Cousins’ Lunch,” gathering her nieces and nephews at a local restaurant to reconnect, laugh, and share stories. It was a simple but meaningful ritual that perfectly reflected her belief that family should always remain close.

Shirley recently received the Boston Post Cane as the eldest citizen of Hollis — an honor that reflected not only her longevity but her deep roots in the community she loved.

Shirley will be remembered for her practicality, her unwavering devotion, and the deep pride she carried for her parents, siblings, and extended family. She was a living link to generations past and a steady foundation for generations to come.

She leaves behind a large circle of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will continue to honor her legacy of loyalty and love.

A funeral service will be held Wednesday March 11, 2026 at 11:00 am at Dolby, Blais, & Segee Gorham Chapel at 76 State St. Gorham, Maine 04038. Services will be led by Reverend Dr. Raymond A. Godin of New Rye Congregational Church, Epsom, NH.

In lieu of flowers, she would have appreciated donations to some of her favorite charities: The Good Shepherd Food Bank, Wounded Warrior Project, and the American Red Cross.