O'CONNELL, Shirley Merle  (née Robinson)

November 7, 1932 – September 20, 2022

Peacefully on September 20, 2022 in Ottawa surrounded by her loving family. Shirley's memory lives on through her devoted husband Gerry (Michael Gerard) O'Connell, beloved children Carolyn Roberts (Rick) and David O'Connell (Lisa), and her grandchildren Victoria, Matthew (Karina), Zachary and James. Shirley joins her parents, Edward and Margaret, her siblings, Laura, Audrey, Doug, and her twin sister, Sheila, in heaven. She will be dearly missed by her sister Doris and brother George (Gladys), as well as her many in-laws, nieces and nephews. Shirley was born and raised on a farm in Malone, Ontario, later moving to Peterborough to work in the factories. At the GE, her sparkling blue eyes captured Gerry's heart. They enjoyed many nights of dancing and summers at Moira Lake before settling down to raise their children. Shirley was an example of strength and determination as she fought to regain her independence after a series of strokes in midlife. Against all odds, she went on to proudly watch her children grow up and start families of their own. Shirley will be remembered for her caring nature, unwavering faith, feisty spirit, and impeccable sense of style. The family extends their gratitude to the staff of Granite Ridge Care Community for their compassion and care for Shirley and family in her final years.

A commemoration of Shirley's life will be held at DUFFUS FUNERAL HOME, 431 George Street South with visitation from 12 noon to 1 p.m. on Monday, September 26, 2022. Funeral Mass will be held at the CATHEDRAL OF ST. PETER-IN-CHAINS on Monday, September 26, 2022 at 1:30 p.m. Interment at Highland Park Cemetery. Reception to follow in the Duffus Reception Centre. In memory of Shirley and in lieu of flowers, donations to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or the Alzheimer Society would be appreciated by the family.  Online condolences may be made at www.duffusfuneralhome.com