April 24, 1938 - July 29, 2024
In loving memory ~
We are sad to announce that Shirley, our much-loved wife and mother, passed away in Nanaimo General Hospital on July 29th, 2024, while comforted by her closest family.
Born to Louisa and Neil Wright in Hanley, Saskatchewan, on April 24th, 1938, Shirley moved with them to Chilliwack, British Columbia, in 1943. After graduating as Valedictorian from Chilliwack High School in 1956, she completed the four-year program at The Vancouver School of Art (now Emily Carr University of Art and Design), followed by a two-year UBC Teacher-Training program. Her first Art-Teaching assignment was at Alberni District High School in 1962.
After marrying David Lord in 1965, Shirley spent ten years in Europe, studying many of the world's greatest artworks while based in England, Turkey and Germany. This passion for travel and cultural experiences took her to such places as Japan, China, Tibet, India, Russia, Bali and Vietnam.
In 1975, she and David returned with their young daughters, Catherine and Amanda, to Port Alberni, where they lived until January, 2024 before moving to the Berwick Community in Parksville.
For many years, Shirley taught Art at North Island College, encouraging aspiring artists to achieve their dreams. She developed her own style of watercolour painting, winning a 'Best in Show' award at the BC Festival of the Arts in 1986. She was included in the Artists in Canada list kept by the National Gallery of Canada Library, illustrated a textbook in Turkey, and was also a published poet, with poems in the Queen's Quarterly.
Shirley was also known to be an excellent cook. Her many talents will be greatly missed, but we give thanks for a life well-lived!
Shirley, predeceased by her parents, Louisa and Neil Wright, and her brother Graeme (Bud) Wright, is survived by her loving husband of fifty-nine years, David, devoted daughters, Catherine and Amanda (Avery), and much-loved grandchildren, Megan and Finnley.
Shirley's Farewell Gathering will be held Wednesday, August 21, at 2 PM at Yates Funeral Chapel in Port Alberni.
We are grateful for all the loving thoughts and assistance from relatives and friends at this difficult time, especially the help from Edward and Marian Lord who opened up their hearts and home.
David, Catherine and Amanda
Service Details
2:00 PM