Shirley Ann MacDougall, 71, of Antigonish, passed away on October 9, 2016, at St. Martha’s Regional Hospital surrounded by family. Born and raised in Big Marsh, to parents John and Sarah Catherine "Sadie" (MacLellan) MacDougall, Shirley was a farm girl that left behind the rural lifestyle to travel the world. She travelled throughout North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Africa and Australia. She worked in several Royal Bank branches throughout Canada including Halifax, Toronto, and Calgary, and attended Mrs. Murphy’s Business College. In her 30‘s, Shirley decided to return home and start a family in her hometown of Antigonish. She babysat children while her daughter was a preschooler and then in 1986, Shirley became the first female bus driver employed at the Strait Regional School Board. She remained in this job until her retirement only a few years ago.
Shirley’s robust personality, vibrant laugh and inability to be shy led her into friendships wherever she went. She believed in being busy and involved. She was a long time 4-H leader, and a volunteer at the Eastern Nova Scotia Exhibition, in particular with Tug of War. Proud of her Scottish heritage, Shirley was involved with Clan MacDougall, and assisted with the Highland Games Tug of War. She was also a volunteer with the Antigonish Legion Auxiliary. Wearing the Xavier logo proudly, Shirley was a huge supporter of X-Project and STFX Athletics.
Shirley leaves behind her daughter Natasha Farrell, son-in-law Kenny Parsons, grand daughters, Lauren and Halle, sisters; Marie Chisholm, Barb Stewart, brother; John "Buddy" MacDougall (Mary). She was predeceased by her brother Gillis MacDougall, brother in law Donald Chisholm, and nephew Aaron Stewart.
Visitation will be held Wednesday from 7 to 9pm and Thursday 2 to 4 and 7 to 9pm in C.L. Curry Funeral Home, 135 College Street, Antigonish. Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00am on Friday in St. Ninian Cathedral, Reverend Joe MacKenzie presiding. Burial in the parish cemetery.
Donations in Shirley’s memory can be made to L’Arche Antigonish or the Alzheimer’s Society of Canada.
Online condolences: www.clcurry.com