Whiston, Shirley Alma (LaPierre). October 8, 1931 – December 10, 2013. Sadly, Shirley passed away Dec. 10, 2013 following a courageous battle with breast cancer, leaving behind her beloved husband David. Predeceased by mother M. Dorothy LaPierre (Dagnall), brother Donald LaPierre, she is survived by daughters Carolyn Franklin (Alan), Susan Perkins (Nicky) and Janice Caldwell, sons David Baker and Laurie Baker; grandchildren Stephanie, Ashley, Clara, Alex, Peter, Chris, Matthew, Kristen and Jamie; great grandchildren Daniela, Gabriel and Ava.
Shirley was baptized in Chocolate Lake following her 18th birthday. She was an enthusiastic volunteer with the NS campground host program for seventeen years. She strove to convey her passion and enjoyment to everyone she met. Shirley was made an Honorary Life Member of the Federation of Canadian Music Festivals in recognition of an outstanding contribution. She was a music teacher for many years, sang in community choirs including the NS Girl Singers, played organ and piano for church services and later at retirement homes. While obtaining her BA with honours at Mount St. Vincent University, she served as president of the Canadian Association of Part-time University Students. Later, she was the president of the Canadian Organization of Part-Time University Students. This office took her to numerous conferences in the Maritimes and Eastern Canada. Later she worked in the Alumni office at MSVU. Shirley’s desire to encourage participation of young people in developing their musical skills, led her to spend many years organizing programs, facilities, and adjudicators and everything necessary for successful local and provincial music festivals. This involved many hours of work in her home office. This she did with her usual calm demeanor and grace. In 1998 Shirley retired from the position of office manager for the NS Board of Examiners in Psychology.
Shirley had a lifelong interest in reading and travel which took her on trips such as car trips across Canada, and opera tours throughout the world. After marrying David in 1987 she found a kindred spirit and together they took cruises, camped, drove, RV’d and walked in six warm continents around the world. Shirley was also active in many organizations such as Women for Music (President), NS Symphony Board , NS Nature Trust, Art Gallery of NS, Opera Nova Scotia and the NS Lighthouse Society to name a few. A Region 3 Vice President Roadtrek International Chapter FMCA 2000-2011.
Shirley lived a life full of family, friends, music, reading, and travel. She touched many peoples’ hearts and lives and will be remembered by family and friends as a dedicated, compassionate, thorough, kind and caring person.
A service to honour Shirley Whiston’s life will be held on Thursday, Dec 19th at 1 pm at J.A. Snow Funeral Home at 339 Lacewood Drive, Halifax NS. Reception will follow. Cremation has taken place.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Canada Breast Cancer Foundation or the charity of your choice.
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