Obituary of Shirley M. McCluskey

The death of Shirley M. McCluskey (nee Leahy), loving wife of Melville L. McCluskey, occurred on April 30th, 2011 at home surrounded by her family. Born July 13, 1928 in Saint John, NB Shirley was the daughter of the late Frank and Bertha Leahy. Shirley retired from NBTel in 1983 after 39 years with the company starting in 1944 as an Operator retiring as a CTI Investigator. Shirley had many lifelong friends whom she considered as part of her family. Upon retirement in 1983, Shirley and Mel had over 25 years of travel including trips to Sebring, St. Petersburg, and various points in Florida, several trips to Hawaii and many cruises. Shirley loved the music of the Big Band Era and never missed a Harry Rigby Dance. An outgoing, generous, and fun loving positive spirit made Shirley the center of any gathering especially family get togethers. Shirley and her husband took up "trailering" in 1979 and enjoyed Sunrise Shores, Hilltop Campgrounds, and for the past 17 years Islandview Campground in St. Andrews, and will be sorely missed by many "trailerland" friends. A natural story teller, Shirley was happy to share tales of trips of Europe and particularly Ireland where at age 66 she kissed the Blarney Stone. Her favourite times were spent with her family and in particular her three grandchildren Jillian, Natalie, and Michael. Married 62 years to Mel, Shirley leaves behind her loving husband Mel, son Michael (Sharron McDougall), grandchildren Jillian, Natalie, and Michael, brother Edward (Ted) Leahy (Monique), sister in law Edna Leahy, sister in law Jean Vaughn, a very close friend Dot Laskey, many nieces and nephews, and even more friends. Shirley was predeceased by a daughter Pamela McCluskey in 1995, brother Francis, and sister Connie. Shirley was a NBTel Pioneer and retired member of IBEW and a member of the Irish-Canadian Society, the Catholic Women’s League of Holy Trinity Church, a former member of Belles & Bows Square Dancing, and Thistle Curling Club. Active as a volunteer at Rocmaura Nursing Home and the St. Joseph’s Auxiliary. Resting at Brenan’s Funeral Home 111 Paradise Row, Saint John (506) 634-7424 with visiting on Wednesday, May 4, 2011 from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held from St. Pius X Church on Thursday, May 5, 2011 at 11:00 am, followed by a reception in the Church Hall. Interment to follow at St. Joseph’s Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donation to the Canadian Cancer Society or charity of your choice would be appreciated.