Shirley Margaret Vaughn-Hulbert

Merced, CALIFORNIA - Shirley Margaret Vaughn-Hulbert (Lishmund) joined family and friends in Eternity on January 27, 2024, at the age of 85. Shirley was born in Croydon, Surrey, England on September 28, 1938, to Norman and Peggy Lishmund. During the Second World War Years, Shirley was primarily raised by her grandmother Gladys, while her parents worked to support the War effort, her Mum in a munitions factory, her Dad training troops in the army. Shirley completed her secondary education at Balgowan Girls School in Kent, then worked in London while attending Pitman's College. At a very early age, Shirley was an administrative assistant to two Company Directors in London. In February 1957, Shirley met Norman Vaughn-Hulbert in London, who was attending a wedding as a best man in Nottingham. A whirlwind romance ensued, and they married on September 14, 1957, honeymooning in Paris. Since Norm was in the Canadian Air Force, they both moved to Belgium. During this period Shirley and Norm visited many European countries; the French Riviera was one of her favorite places. Later they moved to George AFB CA. Shirley was shocked by the hot desert and bare terrain, but decided to adjust and had a job within a week, as an administrative assistant and office manager. During this period Phillip their first child was born. Bill, Shirley's boss kept calling her to come back to work after two weeks; she did return after three weeks, much too soon!!!! Norm transferred back to England in 1964, reuniting with Shirley's family, where second child Bruce was born. In 1966 Norm was transferred to Castle AFB, where Sarah third child was born. Shirley was raised in the Anglican Church in England, so it was a natural thing to find a church home immediately. That special place was St. Luke's Episcopal Church on M Street opposite the courthouse park. Shirley became church secretary together with being assistant to Father Murphy, a special person in her life. Later, the new church was built on Yosemite Avenue. In 1971, Chris was born, expanding the VH family to six! Shirley's commitment to the church included Christian Education Director and teacher, Vestry member for two terms, two terms on St. Luke's School Board, Diocesan Education Trust Class, and longtime choir member. In 1970, Shirley became a naturalized U.S. citizen in the Merced County courthouse. While working and raising a family, Shirley went back to school, attending Merced College and then transferring to Stanislaus State. Always wanting to teach full time, Shirley acquired her teaching credential in 1977. Initially, she served as the director of the Merced Parent Nursery School for 6 years and then moved on to the Merced City School District. Teaching 3rd, 4th and 5th grades at Fremont and Peterson Schools. Shirley was a big supporter of the Arts and always tried to integrate this genre into everyday curriculum. After retiring from teaching, Shirley continued to work in the teaching field volunteering in the Literacy Program at the Merced County Library. In addition, she joined CalRTA (California Retired Teachers Association) serving as Membership Chair for many years, then initiating programs such as the Saturday Morning Family Storytime and St. Patrick's Day annual "Heart for Art" function held at the Multi-Cultural Arts Center. As one of the first Arts Center Board members, Shirley continued her quest "Art is for everyone, anytime". Always interested in Voter Service, Shirley was a long time member of the League of Women Voters, serving as President, Membership Chair and Voter Service Chair. She always remembered the "active" Candidates Nights with great enthusiasm. Shirley loved her family, Church, and Community. Always a big believer in keeping fit, Shirley swam laps at least 5 days a week, even in January using In-Shape outside pool. This activity began in early 70's. She leaves a loving family: Norman, her husband of over 66 years; children Phillip (Jo), Bruce (Kristine), Sarah (John), and Chris (Bonnie); grandchildren Tedd (Royallah), Chris, Rachel, Hannah, Lilli, Anna (Mason), Jean, Jake, Jane, Julia, Cole, Lacee, and Meghann; great grandchildren Dominic, Yuliya Amara, Grayson, and Troy; nephews James, Robert, and Ian; niece Elizabeth; Brothers Paul and David; cousins Pat and Michael. Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, Norman and Peggy Lishmund; grandparents Gladys and Alfie; and brother Johnny. She always remembered her special friend, Black Lab Luke.

You will be missed dearly – Your loving husband and family.

Burial Service will be held on February 23, 2024, 1 PM at Merced Cemetery District (Faith Gardens) 1300 B Street, Merced, CA 95341.

Memorial Service will be held on February 24, 2024, 11 AM at Our Lady of Mercy Church 459 West 21st Street, Merced, CA 95340. Reception will be held immediately following Memorial Service.