Shirley Ann Kent

The family is so very grateful that they were able to gather by her side telling stories, singing songs along with her, and sharing laughter, shortly before she had passed.

Shirley is now reunited with her husband, Don. She is “his girl”. Shirley and Don shared 67 years of marriage. They built their home and lives together in Echo Bay, where they raised 3 sons James, Peter (Candis) and Stephen (Nelda). Shirley was the proud Grandma of Craig (Brittney) Kent, Lisa (Darryl) Connell, Morgan (Jeff) Mills, Jessica (Matthew) Rice, Juliana (Bryce) Hurley, Mariah Kent and Halle Kent. Great grandma of Evy and Owen Mills, Kayden, McKayla and Colby Kent, Ryker, Rhiatt and Ragnar Connell and Elsie and Brynlee Hurley. Shirley was the eldest of Horace and Violet Taylor. Born in Kirkland Lake on December 13, 1935 and raised on Tilley Road in Sault Ste. Marie with her siblings, late Bob (late Arlene), late George (Jan), late John (late Kirsten), and late Judy (late Ron). She will be dearly missed by her surviving “baby” brother, Bill (Aila).

It is with deep gratitude, we remember a remarkable woman whose 40-year teaching career touched countless lives. Serving as the principal of the Landslide School, then as a dedicated grade 8 teacher and teaching consultant with the Algoma Board of Education, she inspired generations of students and colleagues. As a member and for some time as the Algoma President of the Federation of Women Teachers' Associations of Ontario (FWTAO), she championed the growth and support of women in education. In 1997, Shirley received an Ontario Provincial award recognizing her as an outstanding teacher. To which the family hears from so many of her colleagues and past students.

Her love for community flourished through active leadership in the local horticulture club, where she lovingly taught the next generation “The Flower Power Kids” and planted/tended township flower beds. She embraced each season with creative home decorating and opened her doors to welcome family and friends, always leading joyful gatherings with her warmth and celebrated skills in cooking and baking.

Her devotion to her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren was boundless, and she enjoyed collecting and displaying her collection of Gund bears, gardening, harvesting, and sharing the fruits of her labour with loved ones. She found joy in knitting, quilting, sewing, crochet, and traveling throughout Canada and the USA, the Caribbean, and the UK where her appreciation for nature and culture grew with every journey.

Her legacy of kindness, leadership, and love will continue to inspire all who knew her. Shirley was an inspirational presence in the lives of her beloved grandchildren, nephews, and nieces. She saw each one as a unique individual—with their own dreams, challenges, and stories. Shirley took genuine interest in their lives, spending time listening with care, celebrating their milestones, and offering wisdom and love when it was needed most. Her support was never passive; she was always ready to help, encourage, and uplift in countless ways—whether through a thoughtful word, a quiet act of kindness, or simply being there. Her legacy lives on in these precious lives she touched so deeply.

“I wish every child in the whole wide world had a Grandmother just like you.”

The family would like to thank the staff at the FJ Davey Home for their care and compassion through Shirley’s stay. A very heartfelt thank you to Tracey Busque for her time shared with Shirley. They would also like to thank the staff at the Sault Area Hospital, and a special thank you to Dr. Johns, Dr. Trecroce, and Dr. Dawson. The family is so grateful to our own medical team, Dr. Jessica Kent-Rice and Morgan Mills RN for their expertise, advice and loving care for their Grandma.

Shirley and Don will be laid to rest together at a private family graveside service at Maple Leaf Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations (payable by cheque or online) to the Sault Area Hospital Foundation, Matthews Memorial Hospital Association or a charity of your choice would be greatly appreciated. Arrangements entrusted to Arthur Funeral Home – Barton & Kiteley Chapel (492 Wellington Street East, 705-759-2522). Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.arthurfuneralhome.com for the Kent family.