Shirley Mcginn

In Loving Memory of Shirley Anne McGinn December 25th, 1931 - December 8th, 2018 On Christmas day of 1931, Daniel and Agnes McGinn welcomed their fourth child of ten, Shirley Anne. Growing up in a busy farm family, Shirley became an excellent cook, baker and housekeeper as she helped her mother to care for the family. Shirley first attended the local school in Emyvale, then had the opportunity to continue her education at the convent school in Kinkora. Upon graduating from school, Shirley completed her teacher training and embarked upon a life long career in education. From a rural schoolhouse to many happy years at Parkdale Elementary, Shirley never stopped teaching. In fact, the day after she retired she headed back to the classroom, this time as a cherished volunteer. Dear to Shirley’s heart were her many years as a volunteer at Prince Street School, both in the breakfast program and in the classroom. Shirley was beloved by all who knew her at Prince Street School. In fact some people were surprised to learn she was a volunteer, not a paid staff member, as they saw her there so often! Not only was Shirley a lifelong educator but she was also a lifelong learner. She went back to university to complete her degree in pyschology and then her Bachelors in Education after the liscencing requirements for teachers changed. Later in life, Shirley audited courses through Senior’s College at the University of Prince Edward Island, often talking about the young people she met at class. Her quest for learning and self improvement never stopped. Shirley adored children and they adored her. She had a way of bringing out the best in each child and helped them to realize their full potential. Each of her nieces and nephews looked upon her as a friend, confidant, mentor and role model. Shirley had great love for her family and community. For her, love was a word of action....how could she do her best to serve others? Shirley volunteered tirelessly; teaching grade 2 catechism, working at the St. Vincent de Paul society, staffing the front desk at the QEH, visiting people in need and simply helping wherever she could. When she was publically recognized for her outstanding volunteer work; first being awarded the Order of Prince Edward Island in 2000 and then being chosen as PEI's Senior Islander of the year in 2010, Shirley was characteristically modest. Her response was always "I'm only doing what anyone would do if they had the time". A constant through Shirley's life was her faith. As a devout Roman Catholic, she attended mass daily and lived her faith with all her heart. At her funeral last December, a reading from St. Peter spoke of how life should be lived for God's glory. Shirley did this beautifully, honouring the gifts given to her and using them to help others in any way she could. During Shirley’s illness last year, she received outstanding care from the staff at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital and Moncton City Hospital. Their professionalism, kindness, compassion and expertise helped so much during a very challenging time. Family members and friends from across the country formed “Team Shirley” and lovingly cared for her, either in person or through prayer. When Shirley passed away on the 8th of December, she was surrounded by family and words of love. Her death was as beautiful as the life she lived. We were blessed to have a dear family friend, Father Eric Dunn, come out of retirement to conduct her funeral mass in December, then preside at her committal service in June. As we move forward in a world without Shirley, we follow her path of love, quietly and humbly making a difference each day. This is how we honour her legacy. Lovingly remembered by her family and friends, especially her brother, Brendon and sisters, Kathy and Patricia.