Obituary of Shirley Anita Ells

It is with sadness that the family of Shirley Ells of Saint John, beloved wife of the late Harry Ells, announce her passing which occurred on Thursday, December 31, 2020 at Kennebec Manor.  Born on January 3, 1932 in Saint John, she was the daughter of the late Walter and Sylvia (Hamm) Poley.

Shirley always took great comfort in her faith and was a member of St. Mark’s United Church where she taught Sunday school and led the CGIT in her younger years.  Shirley served many years as an elder of the church and was past president of the UCW.  She also served on the Executive of Saint John Presbyterial United Church Women as a representative to the chaplaincy support committee for the area hospitals.  Shirley spent several years as a member of the original handbell choir which she truly enjoyed.  Most of all, Shirley treasured the times spent with those she loved.  Shirley “Nana” especially looked forward to the fun times with her grandchildren and the memories of baking and sleepovers will always be cherished.  She was always a gracious hostess and enjoyed the family dinners around the kitchen table.

Shirley will be lovingly remembered by her sons, David (Debra) of Petawawa, ON, Doug (Terry) of Quispamsis and Stephen (Libby) of Warwick Township, ON; daughters, Heather Dorey (Tom), Jo-Ann Bryan (Joe) and Cathy McLaughlin (Brian), all of Saint John; brothers, Bob Poley (Shirley) of Moncton and Ralph Poley (Betty) of Saint John; 14 adored grandchildren, 10 precious great-grandchildren; as well as several nieces and nephews.  Besides her parents and husband, she was predeceased by her brother, William Poley and grandson, Adam Ells.

Shirley’s family would like to express their heartfelt appreciation to the staff of Kennebec Manor.  The exceptional care, kindness and friendship shown towards Shirley and our family will never be forgotten.

Resting at Brenan’s Funeral Home, 111 Paradise Row, Saint John (634-7424) with visiting on Monday, January 4, 2021 from 2:00 - 4:00 PM.  The funeral service will be held from Brenan’s Chapel on Tuesday, January 5, 2021 at 12:00 PM.  Guests are asked to use the courtyard entrance, where staff will greet and assist you with COVID-19 protocol.  For those not in attendance, the service will be livestreamed and can be viewed by visiting Shirley’s obituary on Brenan’s website.  Interment will take place in Cedar Hill Extension Cemetery.

For those who wish, remembrances may be made to the Alzheimer Society of NB or a charity of the donor’s choice. 

www.BrenansFH.com