Shirley Anne Matheson

It is with deep regret that we announce the passing of Shirley Anne Matheson, aged 66, on the morning of Friday, January 27th, 2023 at St. Martha's Hospital in Antigonish, Nova Scotia. Shirley was born in her childhood home in Point Tupper, Nova Scotia to William Garth Matheson and Lillian Livina Matheson (Hayes).

Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away. Shirley - loving daughter and sister; dedicated mother and auntie; loyal friend - took our breath away on countless occasions, and was the center of so many precious moments that we will forever cherish. She was loved by all those who crossed her path. Her heart was filled with warmth, kindness and optimism, and she was able to bring out the good in everyone she met by sharing that with them.

She enjoyed adventures with her friends at the manor, yard saling with her Thursday night crew, playing cards with friends and family, dancing with her sisters and kayaking whenever she could get out. She truly celebrated life to its fullest. Christmas was her favorite time of year, and her decorations were the envy of all those lucky enough to see them. Her apartment was always transformed into a magical winter wonderland.

Shirley leaves behind three special men in her life who stayed by her side until the end. Her three heroes - her two sons, Nigel and Jason, and her ex-husband Murray who remained her best friend. She is also survived by her brother and sisters Harold, Brenda, Valerie, Lauretta, Linda, Geraldine, Sandra, and Peggy; and Mary K who she loved like a sister. Shirley touched so many people in her short time here - parents, siblings, cousins, nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, in-laws and so many friends - know that she loved you, and you are all loved by us for being a part of her life.

Shirley's family would like to extend a very special thanks to all those involved in her care at the palliative unit in St Martha's Hospital, as well as the community palliative care team in the Strait Area and all of the home care workers that made it possible for her to spend her final weeks in her own home. You are all greatly appreciated.

Those we love don't go away, they walk beside us every day. Unheard but always near. Still loved, still missed, and very dear.

Shirley will be cremated and laid to rest at the Heritage Oak Columbarium at Christ Church in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, where she spent a portion of her youth. There will be no visitation or service, as those were her wishes, but everyone is encouraged to celebrate her life in their own way. Memorial donations may be made to a charity of your choosing.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of Dennis Haverstock Funeral Home, Port Hawkesbury