MAY 11, 1934 – MARCH 27, 2024
It is with deep sadness but peaceful hearts that we announce the unexpected passing of our dear Mom and Nana Shirley Davis (Johnson) on Wednesday March 27, 2024 at her cherished home in Cambridge in her 90th year.
Shirley was the only child of the late James Daniel Johnson and Elizabeth (Cooper) both of which immigrated from the UK as teenagers. Born in Guelph in 1934, she lived most of her life in Cambridge (Galt) She married the love of her life Derwin (Pete) Davis and they shared over 40 years together before he predeceased her in 1995. She is survived and missed by both her children Deryl (Davis) Drysdale and Terry Davis (Pauline) as well as her grandchildren Kathryn “Katie” Drysdale (Jason Hofmeister), Megan Drysdale (William Donkers) and Jody Davis (Michelle). Shirley was also blessed with and survived by 12 great-grandchildren Austin and Mackenzie Rosebrugh, Brody, Blake and Blair Drysdale, Rosalie, Noah and Theo Davis as well as her bonus great grandchildren Charlotte and Payton Hofmeister and Allison and Chelsea Noiles. She is also deeply missed by her constant companion a beloved little yorkie Annabelle. A special thanks to friends Gerald and Karen for the companionship and care in recent years Shirley was 11-years-old when her Mom passed away, leaving just her and her father. They were close knit and shared a special bond until he passed. Her step-mother Eileen Johnson (Bechtel) joined their lives a couple years later.
Shirley and Pete were married in 1952 and built their stone home on Davis family land. All the stones came from Pete’s family farm in Branchton. This stone home was the foundation for their family and remained their lifelong home. Shirley’s contribution to Pete’s successful career in business was significant. She assisted him in the financial planning and investment world as they set an example that “If you can dream it, you can achieve it!”. Shirley’s willingness to try new things led to many hobbies throughout the years. From cooking, baking, family ski trips, sewing, crafting and travelling, her experiences were plentiful. She was an avid reader throughout her life with her books often found near her side. She had a passion for golf and enjoyed her time on the courses with her son Terry and grandson Jody. In her later years she enjoyed playing darts with her many friends at the Legion.
She had a great taste for fashion and home décor, always trendy and stylish. From her sporty cars to her handbags, she carried herself with class and style. She was very much a “giver” by nature, always gifting to those around her. She travelled many places with her husband, children and grandchildren but her favourite place was always Disney. She took many trips there with her family and always enjoyed the magic! A lover of chocolate and jube jubes, Nana is remembered by for always having treats in her house to share. Shirley and Pete both lived a full life that they achieved through vision. An inspiring reminder to those left behind that regardless of where you came from or what you’ve been through, life is what you make of it, one stone at a time.
A visitation for Shirley will be held Tuesday, April 2, 2024 from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM at T. Little Funeral Home & Cremation Centre, 223 Main Street, Cambridge, ON N1R1X2.
