Shirley Edith Saunders R.N. (nee Decker)
August 11, 1938 to December 9, 2024
Obituary
Passed away peacefully on December 9,2024, Shirley Saunders (Decker), at the Health Science Centre St. John’s after a long and courageous battle with Alzheimer’s Disease.
Shirley was born in Roddickton, NL on August 11, 1938.
She graduated from The Grace Hospital School of Nursing in 1959 and began work at Carbonear Community Hospital in September of that year. It was in Carbonear she met her future husband Fred, whom she married in June 1961. Soon after they started a family and moved to St. John’s in 1969. For many years she was a full-time mother before starting work at the Glenbrook Lodge in the early 80’s from which she retired after 25 years.
Predeceased by her parents Elsie and Thomas Decker; mother and father-in-law William and Victoria Saunders; sister Marie Hancock (Fred); brothers Donald and Gordon; son-in-law Herbert Barnes; brothers-in-law Larry Hurwitz and Terry Harvie; sisters-in-law Carol Brown (William), Gertrude Barton and Hilda Saunders; and special friend Fern Lutz.
Shirley was much loved by her husband of 63 years George Frederick Saunders; children Victoria Barnes (Stephen), Stephen (Melinda) and Christopher (Denise); grandchildren Erin, Zachary, Francis, Emma and Megan; sisters Sybil Hurwitz (Vincent), Maunda Jones (Cyril), Joyce Harvie, Beverly Decker (John); brother Rick Decker (Ena); sister-in-law Violet Decker and special friends Mary Saunders and Marie King.
Shirley excelled at everything she put her hand to. She was a skilled cook who loved to entertain friends and family. In addition, her creativity flowed into other areas, and she expressed her artistic nature in her sewing, quilting, knitting, jewelry creation and macrame, to name a few. Everything she created was done to perfection.
Shirley exuded kindness in her smile and calm demeanour, attributes which made her well suited in her career as a nurse and her life as a wonderful mother and grandmother. She truly was the definition of a kind, gentle soul.
The family wishes to thank the nurses, doctors and staff of the Emergency Department and the Unit 4 South A of the Health Science Centre for their exceptional assistance, compassion and support in this most difficult time.
Cremation has taken place and a private family service will take place later.
In lieu of flowers the family is suggesting donations be made to the Alzheimer Society of Newfoundland and Labrador.
Fred and family
Sorry to hear of Shirley’s passing. She was a lovely person and a great cook. I lov spending time with her while she was advising me on the proper techniques of quilting.
Kindest wishes to you and your family.
Glenda and Eric Burry
Vicky, Stephen and Chris and families,
I was so sorry to hear about your Mom. I have such fond memories of growing up with all of you and your Mom. Always welcoming. Always busy with sewing, crafting or cooking. She was a formidable lady..
I hope your memories will help you through this difficult time. Thinking of you
Beverley Bishop
To Fred and Vicki,
Sorry to hear of Shirley’s passing.
Thinking of you at this time,
Frances & David Bishop.
Dear Fred.. I am so very sorry to read of Shirley’s passing. .To You, Vicki, Steve and Chris I am sending my deepest sympathies. While I was aware of Shirley’s illness it is still so very sad . Shirley was such a special lady and so very talented.. I have a picture of one of my daughters hanging in my living room and she is wearing one of Shirley necklaces that she designed and created.. It was always among my favourites..
Take care
Sincerely, Gloria Stewart
We were sorry to hear of Shirley’s passing.Condolences to Fred & all the family. R.I.P. Shirley
I am so very sorry for your loss. Your mom had a beautiful soul. She was always kind and loving. I am eternally grateful for the care she gave my grandfather in his final years at Glenbrook Lodge. She always went above and beyond for her friends, family and patients. I hope the wonderful memories you have of her bring you comfort.
Ita and I send our deepest sympathy and love at this difficult time. Shirley was a loving and kind person, loved by all who knew her. I shall miss her friendship and the many laughs we had together. Rest well Shirley you shall be greatly missed.
Thinking. Of. Family. At. This. Sad. Time worked with Shirley. At. Glenbrook. Lodge
Fred and family: so sorry to hear of Shirley’s pass. May the memories you made together help you during this difficult time. 🙏
Sending condolences and prayers to Shirley’s family on behalf of the pastoral care department of the Glenbrook Lodge. May your memories bring you comfort during this difficult time of loss.
Sending love to the Saunders Family at this sad time. Shirley and i were clasmates at the Grace. Even though I moved “off Island ” in ’61 we enjoyed seeing each other at reunions and such. She was always so proud of her family. Remember the good times.
Sending love to the Saunders Family at this sad time. Shirley and i were clasmates at the Grace. Even though I moved “off Island ” in ’61 we enjoyed seeing each other at reunions and such. She was always so proud of her family. Continue to bask in her love.
Fred and Family – I am saddened to learn that Shirley has passed . Treasure the happy memories as they will bring comfort during these difficult days . Sincere condolences to the family , and know that my thoughts and prayers are with you .
Earl Saunders
Saunders Family
I worked with Shirley for many years at Glenbrook Lodge. She was an awesome nurse and a beautiful person . So kind and gentle .Thinking of you all at this very sad time. My condolences .🙏🙏
Fred and family,
I am so sorry to hear of Shirley’s passing. We went walking together and shared many memories, stories and laughter. She was a lovely , gentle and kind lady! My deepest condolences! Rest in peace my friend !
Oh Vicki. So sorry to hear about your mother’s passing. May she rest in peace. You will miss her. She was your first and forever friend. I think of my mother every day and I know you will too. They are never far from our minds or hearts. Take good care of yourself and Francis.
Mr. Saunders, so sorry to hear of your dear wife’s passing. So many fond memories from years ago at Day & Ross. Vicki, Steve, Chris may all your wonderful memories help get you through the Days ahead. God Bless.
Fred, Vicki, Steve, Chris and families. We are so sorry to hear of Shirley’s passing. We’ve many fond memories of Shirley, particularly your time on Baird Place as neighbours and dear friends of mother and father. This special relationship continued beyond Baird as Shirley and mom remained very close throughout life’s ups and downs. May Shirley rest in peace.
Dear Fred, Vicki, Steve and Chris,
I am so sorry to learn of the loss of your wonderful mother Shirley. When I think of good people in this world, she certainly springs to mind. Always kind, warm, and so generous with her heart.
I also remember that she always had time to knit beautiful socks annually for my father, which he treasured.
She will be missed and her memories cherished.
Fred, Vicki, Chris, Stephen and families please accept our sincere condolences on the passing of your wife, mother and grandmother. We knew Shirley very well and she was a very close and dear friend to our mother, Mary. For many years they were often found together playing cards, doing crafts, shopping or just having a cup of tea. Shirley was a great lady who will certainly be missed. Remember the good times of which we are sure there are many.
Dear Bev, Decker & Saunders families, sending condolences to all. I know from meeting Shirl over the years & by the way Bev spoke of Shirl, she was a very important lady in your lives.
May your memories bring you comfort during this difficult time.
Hugs to you Bev.
Sincerely, Theresa & Dave
My deepest condolences to all Shirley’s. I worked with Shirley at glenbrook Lodge. Very kind and gentle lady. May she rest in peace.
Condolences to Vicki, Fred , Stephen and Chris on the passing of shirley. She was a dear cousin and as you described her a gentle and spirit. I hope the many memories you have of her will bring you some comfort in this time of grief .
Uncle Fred, Vicki, Steve, Chris..on Mom’s behalf our deepest condolences. Though time and distance have come between us over the years nothing will ever take away the happy memories of Aunt Shirley and our time with her and with you on Baird Place. Especially this time of the year! She was a beautiful person and truly our 2nd Mom; we knew we could count on her for anything, anytime. Bless you all
Mr. Saunders, Vicki,, Stephen and Chris I am so sorry to hear of Mrs. Saunders passing. I have such wonderful memories of her from my Day and Ross days. Such a blessing to have known her . May she rest in peace.
Vicki, very sorry to hear about your mother’s passing. I know how difficult a time this is and just wanted to let you know you are in my thoughts.
To Mr. Saunders, Victoria, Stephen, Chris and the Saunders extended family,
It is sad to read of the passing of your beloved wife and Mom. She was a sweet and kind person as we knew her from being involved at Vater’s Academy many years ago.
We extend our deepest sympathy and love to the family at this difficult time. May she rest in peace. May you feel peace and comfort in all of the great memories. 🙏
Clayton and Ruth Rice
I sympathize so much, she was the kindest and most beautiful woman. Her hard work knew no bounds. Her sense of humor never left her. She hated black pants, she loved bright colors and warm smiles. When someone spoke, she always listened to the end. And no matter how hard it was for her, she always remained caring.
Mr. Saunders, Vicki, Steve, Chris and families, our sincere condolences to you all as you mourn the loss of your wife and Mom. May your memories of happier times help you through this difficult time.
‘Memory is one gift of God that death cannot destroy.’
So very sorry to hear of your mother’s passing, Vicki. No matter how ill they may be, or how prepared you think you are to say goodnight, it’s always brutal to lose a parent, or anyone you love, as you well know.
My heart hurts for you and for Francis and for the rest of your family.
Much love,
Renée and Paul Antle
Vicki and family,
So sorry to hear of your Moms journey with Alzheimer’s and her recent passing. My thoughts and prayers are will you all as you celebrate her life and grieve your loss.
Margo (Stewart) Hand
Chris & Family
We were very sorry to hear of your dear mother’s
passing. Thinking of you and sending our love and
warmest sympathy as this sad time
Gerry & Velma Davis
Shirley was a tremendous person and to know her was to love her! Our sincere condolences to Vicki and Francis and your family as you mourn this loss.
I worked with Shirley at Glenbrook Lodge and she was such a wonderfully gentle and kind soul. She had a smile and a laugh that warmed many hearts. My sympathy to you all in the loss of such a lovely person.
Vicki and Family, so sorry to hear about the death of your dear mother. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Vicki, Francis, Steve, Chris, Mr. Saunders & members of the Saunders & Decker families, we extend our heartfelt condolences to each of you! I have so many fond memories of Mrs. Saunders. Anyone who knew her, loved her! She had such a great smile! Love for all her family was evident! She was a very sweet, kind, & classy lady who gave so much in her personal life & nursing career! She certainly left a remarkable stamp on this world! She loved you all! May all your precious memories bring you comfort! Love to all of you!
Imelda, John, Jessica & Rebecca xoxo
To my sweet darling friend Bev ,and the entire Decker & Saunders family. Please accept our condolences on Sheryl’s passing.. I know how dear she was to her siblings and her family. I hope the many memories you have of her will bring you some comfort in this time of grief. Bride & Reg Norman
So sad to hear of your loss! I have a special place in my heart for Mrs. Saunders, she was so kind to me and I have very fond memories of her. Thinking of you!