RICHARDSON (Hirtle), Shirley Elaine

Aged 93, Bridgewater. It is with immeasurable sadness that family of Shirley Richardson announce her passing on April 7, 2024 at Bridgewater South Shore Regional Hospital after a sudden, yet brief illness. Shirley passed with the blessings of peace of heart and mind. Shirley was born in Wileville, on March 24, 1931 to parents Hugh and Mildred Hirtle. Mom married Lawrence Ray Richardson and a family of four children soon followed. These are the ones now left behind to cope with the loss of her presence in their lives. Shirley is survived by her daughters, Barbara Conrad (Lynwood) of Bridgewater, Peggy Richardson of Chelsea, and sons, Kevin Richardson (Bridgewater) and Andrew Richardson (Jane Whynot) of Lower Branch. Our mother’s greatest pride was her eight grandchildren, Katy and Adam, Krystal and Troy, Cole and Kara, Tyler and Leeanne, all of whom she would proudly regale her friends of their accomplishments and be spoken of in tones of the sincerest love. Shirley was also graced with six great-grandchildren who were the absolute sunshine of her days. Keria and her “Little Man” Jaxson, Mason and Sadie, and her treasured twins, Kori and Ella, each bringing such joy to her world. She truly was a proud family matriarch. Shirley is also survived by her sisters, Mona Diggins (Bridgewater), Catherine Wynn (Kentville), sister-in-law, Dorothy Hirtle (New Ross), and numerous nieces and nephews. Shirley was predeceased by her loving husband, Larry; parents, Hugh and Mildred Hirtle; three siblings in infancy, brothers, Donald, Douglas, Vernon, Vance, Rex, and sister, Audrey Harlow. Mom, to her four children, was considered the loving and essential glue of the family. Mom’s departure leaves a huge void in our lives. To use her own words spoken in her final hours, Mom departed … “Happy.” Interment has taken place under the direction of C.F. Sweeny’s Funeral Home of Bridgewater and officiated by the Reverend Willis Ott. A private graveside service was held attended by immediate family only. At Shirley’s request, all donations can be made to the St. John’s Lutheran Church of Mahone Bay or the South Shore Regional Health Services Foundation. Online condolences and donations made be made by visiting: www.sweenysfuneralhome.com