The family invites you to watch the Celebration of Shirley's Life. Please click here

Shirley Kayes
July 7, 1930 – December 13, 2023

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our mother Shirley Irene Kayes. Surrounded by her family, Shirley passed away peacefully, after a brief illness, on December 13, 2023, in Brandon, Manitoba, at the age of 93. Born July 7, 1930, in Trenton, Ontario, Shirley was predeceased by her parents, Lillian and Clifford Hall; her siblings, Ray, June and Doreen; her grandson Jordon Kayes; and her former husband and children's father, Robert Kayes. Shirley was a loving mother, grandmother and great grandmother. She is survived by her children; Brian (Jill), Karen (Roger), Andrew (Cathy) and Margaret (Richard); grandchildren Beth, Barbara, Shannon and Steven; and her nine great grandchildren. In addition, Shirley leaves behind many nieces, nephews and family from Ontario.

Shirley had fond memories of growing up on a small farm near Belleville, Ontario where she developed her love of gardening. After she married, Shirley moved to Manitoba where she worked many jobs before beginning her career with the provincial government. As the wife of a United Church minister, Shirley lived in many small towns and cities in southern Manitoba including MacDonald, Miniota, Brandon and Winnipeg. She was very involved in the United Church, singing in Miniota, Knox and Charleswood United Church choirs.

Shirley had a zest for life and loved to travel. She first travelled internationally as a young woman and then in retirement she travelled often, visiting many corners of the world. She was always active and when at home, she enjoyed gardening, reading, knitting, quilting as well as playing cards, bowling and other activities. For many years she was a season ticket holder for the Winnipeg Blue Bombers and enjoyed cheering them on.

Shirley enjoyed a long life and has touched and been touched by many. She will be greatly missed.

A celebration of Shirley's life will take place at Knox United Church, 451-18th Street in Brandon on Monday, December 18 at 1:30 pm. Reverend Craig Miller will officiate. For those unable to attend in person, the service will be webcast from Shirley's memorial page at www.memorieschapel.com.

Shirley will be interred at Belleville, Ontario where she will rest with her parents, sister and other close family members. A memorial will be held in Belleville in the near future.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Shirley's name to Knox United Church (Memorial Fund), 451 – 18th St., Brandon, MB, R7A 5A9, or to the Brandon Regional Health Centre Foundation for Palliative Care Unit, 150 McTavish Ave. E., Brandon, MB, R7A 2B3.