Obituary of Shirley Lorraine Burns
Shirley Lorraine Burns, a remarkable woman who touched the hearts of many and left an indelible mark on those who knew her. Shirley passed away peacefully at home in Bradenton, FL, on Sunday, April 7, 2024, a month before her 86th birthday. Shirley was a beloved mother, cherished sister, doting grandmother, and devoted friend. She leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and unwavering kindness that will be forever cherished by her family and friends.
As we reflect on Shirley's life, we are reminded of her dedication to her family, church and community. Born Shirley Bevans, she was the daughter of the late Father Arthur Bevans and Mother Eileen (Day) Neal. She was the dear sister of Dawn Journeay (Sydney) of Hamilton, ON, Dianne Thorne (Bob) of BC, Linda Klingspong (Ruben) of AB, David Bevans (Betty) of Upham, NB, Bill Bevans (Doris) of Barnsville, NB, and was preceded in death by, Jeannette Haase (Tony) of Hamilton, ON., Doreen Harvey of Sussex, NB., Kathleen Wood (Frank), of Hamilton ON., and Larry Neal of AB. She will be greatly missed by all her surviving siblings and their families.
Shirley was the beloved mother of Gordie Burns (Dianne) of Woodlands, MB, Lorrie Burns of Bradenton, FL, Scovie Burns (Leslie) of Bowmanville, ON, Kristie Hudema (Phil) of Mission, BC, Kimmie Lynn (Jeff) of Sanford, FL, and Kelly Burns of Fort Myers, FL. She was preceded in death by her son Ronnie Burns, and ex-spouse Gordon Burns. Shirley adored her grandchildren (9) and great-grandchildren (6): Jason, Linda, and Dylan Burns; Mitch, Laurel, Ben, and Aubrey Burns; Nathan, Jessica, Kira, Maisie, and Luna Burns; Evan Burns; Cameron Burns; Seth and Molly Hudema; Madison Hudema; Hunter Lynn; and Halin Lynn. Shirley's love extended beyond her immediate family to her extended family, including nieces, nephews, and friends, who all held a special place in her heart. She was a pillar of strength and support to all who knew her.
Shirley lived a full and vibrant life, touching the lives of many through her various roles and endeavors. Her career and volunteer work were as diverse as her interests. She was a mother of seven, a school bus driver, #95. She went back to school and became an RN and received her Bachelor of Science Degree and later became a Board Certified Alternative Medical Practitioner. Shirley was head deaconess at her church, and a dedicated member of various choirs (Kettering choir, Forest Lake choir & Saint John choir). Camp Pugwash, Nova Scotia was her sanctuary where she renewed her spirit and reconnected with old friends. She enjoyed being active with the singles ministry at her church.
She dedicated her time visiting nursing homes and shut-ins along with her children, the family brought comfort and joy through singing and companionship. She volunteered with ACTS, a disaster relief group, and traveled to Haiti to offer her assistance as an RN. One of her fondest memories was being part of the Disney mass choir at Christmas for several years, a role she cherished deeply. In addition to her volunteer work, Shirley was actively involved in sports and creative pursuits. She enjoyed rollerblading, biking, jogging, ice skating, swimming, scuba diving, lifting weights, racket ball, and participating in volleyball and basketball teams during her high school years. Shirley had a keen interest in nature and enjoyed bird watching, sea turtle hatching, and outdoor activities like cross-country skiing, canoeing, and kayaking. She enjoyed traveling especially to the Holyland’s. Her creative talents knew no bounds, from sewing clothes to making rugs and baking goods to sell at flea markets. She shared her culinary skills as the head cook at Pugwash during summer camp and as a sample cook for ABC. Shirley was also a dedicated student, earning certifications in nursing and alternative medicine.
Shirley attended; Hazen White St Francis, Saint John, NB Canada (Elementary School), VOC Saint John, NB, and Oshawa Missionary College, Oshawa, Ontario Canada 1956, ( High School) Saint John School of Nursing 1985, 2 year nursing, Andrews University Bachelor of Science, 1990, College(University / Graduate School), Board Certified Alternative Medical Practitioner - Uchee Pines Lifestyle Center, Seale, Alabama February 2002.
Shirley's journey took her from her childhood home in Saint John, NB, to various locations including Kettering, Ohio, and Seale, Alabama, before she made her home in central Florida for the last 30 years. Throughout her life, she made lasting friendships and touched the lives of many with her warmth, kindness, and generosity.
Though Shirley may no longer walk among us, her spirit will live on in the memories we hold dear. Let us take comfort in knowing that she is at peace, her legacy of love shining brightly in our hearts.
May we honor Shirley's memory by embracing the values she held dear and by spreading kindness and compassion wherever we go. Rest in peace, dear Shirley. You will be forever cherished and dearly missed.
A private graveside service will take place at Ocean View Memorial Gardens (715 Latimore Lake Road, Saint John, New Brunswick) on Saturday, August 3, 2024 at 10:30 AM. The service will be livestreamed and can be viewed by clicking the livestream link in the sidebar.
