Shirley Eveylene Barby
January 18th, 2021
It is with saddened hearts the family announce Shirley Barby of Strathmore, AB lost her battle with COVID-19 on Monday, January 18, 2021, at the age of 85.
Shirley was born in Calgary, AB on December 8, 1935. She was a hard worker and worked many years at Foothills Hospital. Shirley settled into farm living with her husband Jim in the community of Saddleridge where they raised their two children Jolene and Colin, she loved the rural life. Eventually Shirley and Jim purchased a farm in Vulcan County where she took pride in caring for the livestock. Shirley adored children, or “little people” as she called them, and took a teaching aid job at the Mialta Hutterite Colony. She remained in close contact with the colony over the years, even after moving into the town of Strathmore almost 20 years ago. Shirley had a passion for hockey and after moving to Strathmore she volunteered her time with the local Strathmore AAA Bison hockey team, timing and score keeping. She loved watching the Calgary Flames, and especially loved watching the World Juniors Series. Her servant heart also called her to take in exchange students from Korea, Japan, and China to provide room and board as they attended Strathmore High School. Shirley took great pride and joy in being able to participate in the student exchange program.
She will be lovingly remembered by her husband of 64 years, Jim; children, Jolene and Colin; grandchildren, Colton (Shalyn), Laine (Darren), Tori (Brad), Tyson (Makenna); great-grandchildren, Myla, Lola and Mattea; as well as extended family members and friends.
Shirley was predeceased by her parents, Grace and Hedley; siblings, Dorothy, George and Clifford.
At Shirley’s request there will be no funeral.
The family would like to thank the nurses and staff of AgeCare Sagewood, for their care of Shirley during her stay and would also like to thank Dr. Sader & the Valley Medical staff.
In lieu of flowers, Shirley has requested donations be made to the Arthritis Society www.arthritis.ca.
Messages:
Jim and family, We are very sorry for your loss. Shirley was such an amazing person. Whenever we had the chance to speak with her, she has like a ray of sunshine; always so positive and full of energy. She was also a very good friend to Sophie. They are probably having a good chat up in heaven. God Bless, Sharon, Tom and Mitchell Hill
Jim and family - You have our sincere condolences on the loss of your beloved Shirley. We shared some fun times over the years, for sure - especially with the crew from 101 at the Foothills - from 40 years ago! Shirley was such a character; she was truly one of a kind. Bob and I always enjoyed looking the two of you up at the Stampede, when you showed your Murray Greys. May you rest in peace, Shirley. Cathy and Bob Martin.
So very sorry to hear of Shirley’s passing. Please accept our deepest condolences Jim, Jolene, Colin and families. Sincerely, Garry & Teresa Hides
So sorry about your loss. Our sincere condolences from everyone here at Mialta Hutterite Colony. She truly was a great lady. We were fortunate to have her as a teacher. She touched a great many students lifes with her kindness and compassion over the years. She instilled a sense of love of learning and adventure that is still with us. She will be missed.