AITKEN, Ruth “Shirley” (nee Ferguson)
Passed away peacefully in her 89th year, on Saturday June 6, 2020 due to complications from a stroke, at the Woodland Villa in Long Sault after a full life as a daughter, sister, sister-in-law, teacher, spouse, mother and grandmother. Lovingly remembered by her grandsons, Brock and Eric, son-in-law, Carey, and nieces and nephews. Predeceased by her husband, Herbert, sons Sandy and Kevin and daughter Carol. Granny treated everyone so well. She always welcomed people with a gleaming smile and was eager to exchange stories. She’d often recount fond memories from her life, including tales from the farm, and times with friends, family, and colleagues – doing so with a smile each time. Granny was loved dearly by everyone she met, and she left a lasting impact on many. Decades after she had retired from teaching, former students would recognize her and make a point of sharing how much her teaching meant to them. Family and friends were paramount to Granny, whom she would often honour through her beautiful scrapbooks. She would keep in touch with them through writing letters, which would often include pictures of her time spent at the Garden or Woodland Villas. From these pictures, it was clear that making friends was second nature for a person with such a joy for life. A talented poet, Granny would share her pieces with friends and family, who admired her way with words. A nurturing grandmother to Brock and Eric, she was a role model for selflessness, resilience, and kindness. She cared deeply about those she loved and could remember intricate details of their lives. We will keep the memory of her in our hearts forever.
Celebration of Life reception to be held later once COVID-19 restrictions are lifted.
Thank you to the Garden Villa in Chesterville and the Woodland Villa in Long Sault for the excellent care that was provided and the genuine friendships that were created during her stays in both residences. Shirley's family wishes everyone could be present with us at the gravesite service at the Hillcrest Cemetery in Newington but in order to keep everyone safe, regretfully we ask that you wait until later in the summer/fall to join us at Shirley's Celebration of Life. To her many friends Shirley met over the years we thank you, for being her friend. You all supported and loved her in many ways during life's good times and bad. That is what true friendship is all about. In lieu of flowers donations to St. Luke's-Knox Presbyterian Church in Finch or a memoriam donation to the Woodland or Garden Villas would be appreciated by the family.