Shirley Hughes

SHIRLEY MAY HUGHES, A.R.C.T.

Shirley died peacefully in her sleep on October 2021.  Her great wish was to die at home, and she did so, surrounded by her loving family.  She was born in Raunds, Northamptonshire, England, the elder daughter of the late Daisy and Wilfred Payne.  Left to grieve her are David, her husband for over 64 years (and best friend for more than 72), her children Martin (Marie) and Sally (Victor), and granddaughters, Hannah and Sarah.  She will also be missed by her extended family in England, notably, sister Margaret, her daughter and sons and their families, many cousins, niece Alison and her family and nephew Stephen and his family.

After graduating from Teacher Training College in 1954, she taught at various schools in

England, and in the Ottawa area after coming to Canada in 1959, specializing in music and later teaching English to French Immersion students. After she retired from teaching

in schools she taught piano privately, having qualified in piano teaching as an Associate of the Royal Conservatory of Music (Toronto).  She then took lessons in Organ and became more active in the musical life of Bells Corners United Church, first as assistant then later as Choir Director and Organist.  She retired from these duties in 1993 and  became involved as accompanist for the Valleymen male voice choir, first under the direction of George Wallace and later, Keith Bailey.  She often said that some of her happiest memories were of trips taken with this choir throughout Eastern Canada, and she treasured the friendships she made with the singers and their partners.

In 2003 and 2005 she played a major part in the adoption of Hannah and Sarah from China. Since then, she developed a wonderful bond with these girls, and she rejoiced in watching them grow into mature and capable women.  She was so happy when Covid restrictions eased, and she was able to see much more of them during the past few months.

Shirley was diagnosed with Parkinsonism about a decade ago.  As the disease progressed, she bore the limitations placed on her with grace and fortitude.  The diagnosis of terminal

abdominal cancer came less than four weeks before she died.  Again, she was accepting of the situation and commented “I am 86 and have had a good life.”

During the last two weeks of her life, she received remarkably fine and compassionate care from Dr. Paul Hacker and the Community Palliative Medicine Associates.  The

family owes them a great debt of gratitude.

Cremation has taken place, and a service of remembrance was held for the family and close friends, under the leadership of the Rev. Angela Bailey.  At a later date it is hoped to have a celebration of her life at Bells Corners United Church, when, as she wished, we

are again permitted to sing. Donations in Shirley’s memory mat be made to Parkinson Canada (www.parkinson.ca) or to the music program at Bells Corners United Church (www.bcuc.org).  Tributes, condolences, and donations may be made at www.tubmanfuneralhomes.com