Shirley P Clark

Shirley was born in Brattleboro on July 4, 1922, to Hazel (Brooks) Pearson and Robert E. Pearson. She attended school in Brattleboro, graduating from Brattleboro High School, Class of 1940. In 1941 she married Francis Joseph Clark, and together they had three daughters. She is the loving mother of three daughters, Linda (Eugene) Bourne, Karen Clark Stevens, and Loren (Robert) Clews.

Shirley’s greatest joy was spending time with her family and friends. She enjoyed outdoor activities such as, biking, swimming, picnicking, and hiking with family and friends. She dedicated her life to helping people and always put the needs of others first. She was a devoted 4H Leader and very active with the UVM Extension Service. Later in life, she served as a volunteer Ombudsman in nursing homes throughout the state of Vermont.

Shirley was the adored grandmother of, Shawn (Mary) Bourne, Kerry (Barbara) Bourne, Tara (Bruce Woodcock) Bourne, Colleen Bourne, Briana Bourne, Sheena Bourne (Joe) DeRosia, John (Terri) Stevens, Becky Brooks Stevens, Amy Stevens (Chris) Bechtold, Ethan (Brandi) Clews, and Brian (Tabitha) Clews. Shirley was also the much loved “adopted mother” of Jane Porter (Robert) Kolodner; as well as the beloved great grandmother to twenty-two great grandchildren and three great-great grandchildren.

Shirley is predeceased by her husband, Francis; a sister, Charlena Pearson Kneeland; a granddaughter, Becky Brooks Stevens and a son-in-law, John Warren Stevens, III.

Shirley’s greatest joy was spending time with her family and friends. She enjoyed outdoor activities such as, biking, swimming, picnicking, and hiking with family and friends. She dedicated her life to helping people and always put the needs of others first. She was a devoted 4H Leader and very active with the UVM Extension Service. Later in life, she served as a volunteer Ombudsman in nursing homes throughout the state of Vermont.

The impact of her love and service to others was reflected in the many friends and family that joyously surrounded her during her last few weeks. The memory of Shirley will live will live on through the beautiful sweaters, quilts and crafts that she made and gave to others.

A Celebration of Life will be held this summer at the convenience of the family. The KER-WESTERLUND FUNERAL HOME, Brattleboro, VT is assisting the family with arrangements. Friends wishing to make a contribution in Shirley’s memory may send them to Guilford Cares, P.O. Box 2517, W. Brattleboro, VT 05303. This organization provided support and friendship during her last years, and made it possible for her to maintain her independent living, which was so important to her.

The family wishes to extend a sincere thank you to Thompson House Nursing Home and Bayada Hospice for the loving compassionate care of their mother, Shirley.