Shirley Viola McKenzie

Born on September 14, 1930, in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Shirley Viola Hall was the beloved wife of late husband James Anthony McKenzie and children, Charlene (Daniel), Kim (late Daniel), Nanette (Steve), Leeanne, and James (Serena).

She was a proud and cherished Nanny to Shannon, Krista, Nicole (Colin); Nicholas (Holly), Corey; Sean (Megan), Bryson, Matthew (Sadie); and Travis, Brittany (Jonathan) and Brandon.

She was a Nanny-Nan to “21 great grandchildren” (Tristen, Riley, Jake, Logan, Aiden, Sienna, Lincoln, Quinn and Emmett), (Mason, Alexa, Hannah, Noah, Cameron, Liam, and Mylah), (Payton, Colton and Amelia), and (Paige and Sloane).

Shirley was the daughter of the late James and Elizabeth (Butt) Hall. She is the last surviving member of her immediate family James (Marie), Jack (Eva), and Joan (Howie).

Shirley’s most cherished roles in life were "Mom”, "Nanny & Nanny-Nan". Shirley was a faithful member of Saint Catherines Church, Halifax.

She was happiest at home, surrounded by family – sharing proud stories of her time at Moir’s chocolate factory, during the war, saving her family from the torpedo that sunk a ship from NFLD to HFX because she wanted to go back to Halifax a week early.

So many memories of her hubby, Joan & Howie, Trudie at the weekly Casino fun and dinners at Mount Saint Vincent.

She shared all celebrating accomplishments of her family, always offering encouragement and sharing her faith and wisdom with quiet strength and warmth.

Shirley was the backbone and strength of our family. She gave us strong values in life and faith.

The family would like to thank the Colchester Palliative Care team and a special thanks to Father Ronald Cairns for the support during this difficult time.

Come celebrate her life with us:

A visitation will be held in J. A. Snow Funeral Home, 339 Lacewood Drive, Halifax from 2 pm to 4 pm and 6 pm to 8 pm Thursday June 18, 2026.

A Funeral Mass will be held at 10 am, Friday June 19, 2026 at Saint Catherine’s of Siena Church, Bayers Road Halifax. A reception to follow in the Church Hall. Burial to follow at the Gates of Heaven 33 Old Sackville Rd, Lower Sackville, NS B4C 2R3