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August 23, 1928 - June 16, 2021
It is with heavy hearts and great sadness that we announce the passing of (Beryl) Shirley Strong who entered into eternal life on June 16, 2021 at Trillium Lodge in Parksville.
Predeceased by the love of her life and devoted husband of 62 years, Marven who passed in 2010 and now are reunited for all time. Also predeceased by daughter-in-law Kory who passed last December. Survived by her younger brother David Tayelor still residing in Nanaimo. Survived also by three supportive children, Gail (Mike) of Penticton, Eric (Dolores) of Erin, Ontario, and David of Duncan. Grandchildren, Andrea, Craig (Sabina), Brian (Tamara), Steve (Talitha), Christin (Richard), Alex (Emma), and Graham (Ali). Great grandchildren, Ashley, Sarah, Alistair, Tristan, Esmae, Camille, Ben, Aiden, and Brittyn. Shirley adored her entire extended family.
Shirley was born Aug 23, 1928 in Comox and raised entirely on Vancouver Island. She and Marven were long time members of St Paul's Anglican Church in Nanaimo, having met through the church youth group, and were married there in May 1948. The following years saw their growing family make multiple moves around the country with their career employer Scotiabank.
When Shirley and Marven retired in 1984 it was not long before they returned home to Nanaimo. But not before they each achieved the "Master Gardener" designation through VanDusen Botanical Gardens in Vancouver. Their combined skills created incredibly beautiful and diverse gardens which won them Best Residential Garden trophies in 3 of 5 years entered while living in Delta.
Aside from her devotion to family, Shirley was an active member of the Rebekah Lodge, an international service-oriented organization, joining while in Parry Sound, Ontario in 1953 and continuing to support their good work for over 50 years in every community where she lived. During that time she held many appointed and elected chairs, including Noble Grand three times and District Deputy President three times. She made many life long friendships.
Traveling the world became their new passion in retirement years, and Shirley especially enjoyed every one of the 30 cruise ship voyages up until her 90th birthday, then decided to keep her feet planted on the ground at home.
We take this opportunity to thank the very caring staff of Lakeside Gardens Seniors Community in Nanaimo and her many dear friends there. Also to the kind and compassionate staff who cared for her while at Trillium Lodge in Parksville.
A Celebration of Life is planned for August 28, 2021 at 11:00 at St Paul's Anglican Church in Nanaimo. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the charity of your choice.
Online condolences may be made at dignitymemorial.com


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