Obituaries

It is with great sadness and immense gratitude for a life well lived that the family of Shirley Iona Cleary (Campbell) announces her passing on Aug 10, 2026 the age of 90.

Born in Pembroke, Hants County, Nova Scotia. Shirley grew up on the family farm among orchards and animals. She attended high school in Windsor before graduating from Maritime College and beginning a career with the federal government.

In 1955, Shirley met Thomas “Tom” Cleary at a weenie roast on the beach at Fisherman’s Cove. They married in 1958 and made Cole Harbour their home. There they raised five children and built a life together, surrounded by the family that would become one of Shirley’s greatest joys.

Known as Mom to her children and Nanny to the generations that followed, Shirley was the matriarch and heart of her family. She shared a special bond with each of her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. With an incredible memory for the details people shared with her, Shirley had a way of making everyone feel special and heard. Birthdays and holidays were never forgotten, and her warmth could fill any room she entered.

Shirley was exceptionally sharp, quick-witted and never shy about sharing her opinion. She always had a good comeback or a story to tell and loved reminiscing with the people around her.

Creative and artistic, Shirley had a natural talent for working with her hands. She loved painting, working with porcelain and could truly craft with the best of them. She was also left-handed, a trait she shared with her father, Clarence, and her beloved Aunt Flo.

Shirley was also an active member of the Catholic Women’s League (CWL) for many years, a community that was a meaningful part of her life.

Throughout her life, Shirley enjoyed berry picking, card games, and her daily word searches and crossword puzzles. She loved the first snowfall of the season (considerably less so the second) and keeping up with her favourite show, Big Brother.

Christmas was particularly important to Shirley and meant having her family together, surrounded by food and, of course, laughter. The traditions and memories created over the years will continue to be treasured by those who loved her.

Shirley leaves behind her beloved husband, Thomas Cleary; their five children, Joan Giberson (Freddy), Stephen Cleary (Colette), Marie Duke (Frank), Judy Cleary, and Kelly Pendlebury (Jason); her grandchildren, Jennifer Duke (Daniel), Brendan Duke (Hannah), Elaine Camm (Brendon), Anthony Hoyeck (Olivia), Cody Cleary, Danielle Cleary, Thomas Zwann, Finley Marshall, Lila and Evan Pendlebury; and her cherished great-granddaughter, Sofia Camm.

She was predeceased by her parents, Winnie (McNeil) and Clarence Campbell; her sister, Joan Romkey (Gary); and her beloved aunt Flo (Archie) Power of Lunenburg.

The love Shirley gave and the memories she created will live on through the family she held so dear. Her quick wit, beautiful smile and unmistakable presence will be deeply missed.

Visitation and service information to follow.