In memory of

Shirley Finnie

July 5, 1931 -  April 15, 2025

It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Shirley Grace Finnie (nee Forsyth), July 5, 1931 - Apr 15, 2025, at the age of 94, having lived a long life in her home in West Hill, where she happily resided for more than 50 years.

Shirley had a full life and successful career before beginning her family, yet one would scarcely know as she was incredibly humble and private.

She took tremendous care in everything she attempted, which showed everyday in her selfless and generous care of others. She was a fantastic host and it was a treat to receive an invitation to her home, as she was an excellent cook. We were spoiled by her efforts in the kitchen and will always cherish our many wonderful holiday memories together.

Throughout her life, she was a devoted Grandmother, Mother, Wife, Daughter, Aunt, Sister, and friend. She will be greatly missed by all those who knew and loved her, and will now be reacquainted with those loved ones who sadly went before her.

A terrific scrabble player, Shirley never lost her edge for the game, winning most of the time even into her nineties. She also had a lifelong passion for jazz, fine dining, poetry, ballet, art and photography, with a keen interest in Canadian Native and Inuit sculpture & paintings, of which she owned several.

Predeceased by her loving husband of 53 years, Wesley, and survived by her children Peter (Christine), and Sue (Pete), and their children Katy & Ryan, as well as her nephew, Bill (Sandy), and many other extended family members, we would like to please thank our wonderful family, great doctors, a special local pharmacist, and a few very important and incredible neighbours who helped to extend Shirley’s time comfortably in her cherished family home, with so many good memories.

A graveside gathering is scheduled for 1pm, Saturday, July 26th, to be followed by a celebration of life gathering in the Loft Room of the Olde Stone Cottage Pub, located at 3750 Kingston Road Scarborough Ontario, M1J3H5. The small gathering will run from 2-5 pm.

In lieu of flowers, anyone wishing to make a donation to Lupus Canada in Shirley’s name, would be greatly appreciated.

Guestbook 

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Kathryn Herault (Neice)

Entered May 26, 2025 from King City

Aunt Shirley. I remember your Sunday roast beef & Yorkshire pudding. You were a fabulous cook!! I remember your kindness when you took in your sister in law & her 3 small children. I remember Uncle Wes’ hair (he always had a brush cut back then) & running my hands over it when I was a toddler. I remember the sandwiches you would make us, complete with pickles! I remember you welcoming me with open arms when I’d come to pick up Sue. I remember sitting across from you when at Uncle Wes’ internment & your sad quiet smile. Heaven is much richer with you there. Say hello to my Mom please. Give Uncle Wes a hug for me. I love you. ❤️

Judy Atkinson (Niece)

Entered May 27, 2025 from Montreal, Quebec

In honour of my dearest Aunt Shirley. I was so fortunate to have shared many years with this elegant and learned person. Her kindness was especially evident when she and our Uncle Wes took into their home his sister and her three children. We were welcomed with open arms and the magnificent meals I will never forget. Another thing I value and will always remember is when she and my Uncle Wes came all the way to Montreal for my graduation. I felt very special and valued then and in the years to follow. Now I will miss our warm telephone calls and our pleasant sharing of notes. I have kept her notes close so I can feel her near.

Shernett (Friend)

Entered July 26, 2025 from Scarborough

Where do I begin? It’s taking me so long. because it seems so final I and I hate thinking that she’s not here anymore, Shirley is so warm hearted so loving so kind and a great friend. The thing is I was Shirley home help I use to help to clean her house which didn’t need much doing because she’s always cleaning herself very strong lady. She never stopped cleaning even when I’m there cleaning she is Dustin and doing other stuff to help out because that’s the person she is, I will miss our conversation and tea time and listening to our jazz music together. I love you shirley. Rest well now

Photos 

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