Shirley Mary Anderson
October 16, 2024
On to her next great adventure, Shirley Mary Anderson, with family by her side, passed away due to complications of pneumonia at LHSC – University Hospital on Wednesday, October 16, 2024, in her 100th year. Born in Melbourne, Australia, Shirley was raised in London, England. In 1944, Shirley married Alan Anderson. Enduring the Blitz of London during WWII, they learned to be undaunted in the face of adversity and fearless of the unknown. And so, with an attitude of never being defeated, and with the confidence that they could rise to any challenge, they immigrated to Canada in 1947 with their two young children, Geoff and Marilyn. They settled in London, Ontario, and overcame many hardships. They soon began a successful business (A.G. Anderson Ltd.), and shortly thereafter the family expanded to include Susan, Chris, David and Lisa. Together, they shared every step of their journey and supported each other resolutely until Alan’s death in 1993. Their bond and her abiding love for him remained a constant source of strength.
Shirley really was unfazed by any perceived obstacle. She innately knew that hard work, perseverance, and determination would eventually win her the day. Family was first and foremost for Mom, and she loved seeing us all together. We will fondly remember her many fabulous meals. Never one to sit idle, Mom transformed her many gardens into beautiful sanctuaries. During the last few years, she endured the challenges of old age with grace.
Shirley is survived by her children Geoff (Penny), Susan (Malcolm McLeod), Chris (Grieg McClay), David (Wendy), and Lisa (Patrick Munt). Tragically, her eldest daughter, Marilyn MacMillan, predeceased her in 2020 – an early victim of COVID. She also leaves behind 12 grandchildren: Jessie, Alexander, Jennifer, John, Lee, Blake, John, David, Heather, Anne, Emma and Sara; 13 great-grandchildren; and a sister, Valerie O’Donnell (Red).
Cremation has taken place. Memorial service will be conducted at Westview Funeral Chapel, 709 Wonderland Road North, London on Sunday, October 27, 2024 at 12:00 p.m., with visitation one hour prior. Those wishing to make a donation in memory of Shirley are asked to consider the London Food Bank or The Salvation Army.
“Sail on, sweet lady, your prince awaits.”
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I recall my first meeting of Aunty Shirley and Uncle Alan when they visited Australia in the early 1980's. I was around 18 years old, and so excited that I skipped classes to spend the day with them. We all went for a day trip to Jenolan Caves, in the Blue Mountains. I fondly recall how elegant and stylish my Aunty Shirley was. She had such an amazing sense of humour and Uncle Alan and Aunty Shirley were clearly great pals. I delighted in watching them interact with her younger brother, John (my Dad) and her sister-in-law, Dorothy (my Mum). We all went on a guided cave tour with a rather serious natured tour guide. Uncle Alan was making light hearted jokes, Aunty Shirley tried unsuccessfully to get him to behave. The laughter that they all generated as a foursome echoed around the caves, and the more they tried to stop their giggles, the worse their giggles became. The tour guide continued his tour, whilst the muffled laughter from the giggly group echoed around the cave and became infectious throughout the tour group. I watched on with such a smile to see this giggly and naughty group. Aunty Shirley and her brother John had been apart in two ends of the world, but the time apart just melted away and they all picked up where they left off. They spent the day recalling wonderful times together. It was truly a wonderful day to be part of. Since that first meeting, I was delighted and fortunate enough to meet Aunty Shirley and the rest of the Canadian clan several times over the years both in Australia and Canada. I even had the wonderful chance to stay with Aunty Shirley at Trellis Crescent for a week or so. Aunty Shirley continually amazed me with her determined spirit, which revealed itself with all the home and gardening hobbies that she insisted on doing for herself, despite the willing assistance of David and Wendy only two doors down. Each time I met her, and most recently was in 2019, she still had that intrinsic happiness, elegance, and charm. Her focus was always the family, and Uncle Alan was always in her mind and thoughts. I am sure she is now sitting on a star above with Uncle Alan, surrounded by giggling family and watching on with that wonderful charming smile. I feel blessed to have spent such happy times with her, and she remains forever in my heart. Photo taken when Aunty Shirley and Aunty Val came to see their brother John in 2001. Dorothy, Aunty Shirley and Aunty Val about to go on the Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb.
I worked for A. G. Anderson Ltd. for many years. Alan (Mr. Anderson as I always called him) would call Shirley every day from work, without fail, at lunchtime. He would say "Hi 2 this is 1, how's 7 (or 3, 4, 5, or 6). Shirley and I exchanged Christmas cards for many years and in recent years, this continued through Lisa. I always looked forward to Shirley's Christmas notes. She was a woman with a wonderful life well-lived. Sincere condolences to the family. Cathy and Alfred Stinziano
My sweet Shirley, I have fond memories of our time together at The Manor. We had some great laughs together. My sincere condolences to her family.
Chris I am so sorry to hear of your mother's passing, I know she was a true treasure to you. My condolences to all of the family.
Shirley is much loved by those whose lives were touched by hers. As Patrick’s brother, and Lisa’s bother in law, I had the privilege of meeting her. She was an impressive woman, not in stature, but in regards to her charm, good grace, intelligence and humour. She welcomed me as if we had known each other forever, and for that, I can’t thank her enough. I appreciate that age and illness may have diminished the qualities I’ve identified, but for her family she was loved and valued no less. I send you my heartfelt condolences, and the hope that you turn to one another for love and comfort in the days, weeks, months and years to come. Chris Munt ❤️ xx
Shirl was the matriarch of the family and she wore it very well. Always up for a party, she was a wonderful hostess and treated her family to gourmet meals. We so enjoyed the years that she lived just two doors down the road on Trellis when we could pop back and forth from each other's homes and spend many meals together. She will forever remain in our hearts and we are truly grateful to Lisa/Patrick and Chris/Grieg for their ongoing care and love for Shirl especially since she moved to her apt. and then onto Manor Village. Rest in Peace Shirl/Mum/Nana. With love, David, Wendy, Sara, Emma and Thor
Services for Shirley Mary Anderson
Visitation will be held at:
Westview Funeral Chapel
709 Wonderland Road North,
London, Ontario
October 27, 2024 11:00 am to 12:00 pm
Memorial Service will be held at:
Westview Funeral Chapel
709 Wonderland Road North,
London, Ontario
October 27, 2024 12:00 pm
Make a donation
If you wish to make a donation, please consider one of the charities listed below. You will be taken to the charity's website to process your payment.
A donation has been made to London Food Bank.
~ Shelley and Mike Fiorino