Dear family and friends
On Thursday morning 19 May, Shirley went be with Jesus her Lord and Saviour, who she loved. And although it is a sad time for us, we feel incredibly privileged to have loved and been loved by such a precious wife, Mum and Nan.
We are thankful for the way God has used Shirley’s life to bless so many. As a family, we are very grateful for all your expressions of love and support; we have so valued your prayers and have been greatly encouraged by the tributes and memories you have shared with us.
In the last few days of Mum's life we read these to her. Your tributes were a beautiful gift, that reminded Mum - and sweetly surprised her - that her life was one of significance. It bought her joy and real peace to know that her life has impacted yours, and she feels very humbled and grateful, that God has used her life for great effect, and His purpose, in so many of your lives.
A celebration of Shirley’s life was held on Saturday 28 May, 2pm at Eastview Baptist Church, 559 Chapel Road, Botany, Auckland 2163
The following are links to Mum’s Service – should you wish to view it.
Part 1 https://youtu.be/mm83iznxqTo
Part 2 https://youtu.be/RSTTL58rSFE
Shirley's life story, & tributes from her Memorial service are now loaded in "Her Life"
Thank you all, your words and stories are a treasure and comfort
John, Peter, Bronnie and Sue and families.
Tributes
Leave a tributeYou and John have poured much love and support into my family. To Jeremy, Sarah, Matt and myself, especially when Harvey passed away, and when Matt lived at El Rancho. I have such wonderful memories of your loving service at camp. With my love and deep appreciation.
Caroline
Hebrews 13:14 "For this world is not our home; we are looking forward to our city in heaven, which is yet to come"....And verses 15-17 which is just what Shirley and John have done... "with Jesus' help, let us continually offer our sacrifice of praise to God by proclaiming the glory of His name. Don't forget to do good and to share what you have with those in need, for such sacrifices are very pleasing to God. Obey your spiritual leaders and do what they say. Their work is to watch over your souls, and they know they are accountable to God. Give them reason to do this joyfully and not with sorrow. That would certainly not be for your benefit."
Give mum a cuddle from me.
Love you Shirley! xxxxxxx
Elayne Moore (Nee: Sunderland)
Thank you so much for all the hard work you and John put into the lives of all who stepped foot at El Rancho, my second home growing up. I will always remember your friendly warm smiles around the camp. Those were the days! !! You have been faithful servants of the Lord and i know He'll look at you, pull you in close in a warm embrace and whisper, "well done my good and faithful daughter" :) You made that place such a warm and inviting place for so many to come. I will never forget. May you have all His peace that surpasses understanding as you go home to your greatest Love. I know He would've prepared an AMAZING place just for you. Xx
Youngest daughter of Alastair and Heather-Mary MacKenzie,
Zoë
I have known you for a long time and have very many happy memories of our time at El Rancho together. Your gentle nature and love for the Lord shone through in the way you treated everyone. Bill and I always appreciated the work you and John did at the camp.
Lots of Love
Bev Crighton and family.
Zephaniah 3:17 The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves.He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing.
Helen Niedermoser
Dear Shirley
We are privileged to meet many saints on our own pilgrimage and I want to thank you for being a shining example of faithful, kind, supportive Christian womanhood.
As you journey your final days/weeks may the Presence of the Saviour be your constant companion assuring you of that mansion He has prepared for you. There is glory ahead through the veil. Be encouraged by the support of the body of Christ as you approach the gates!
Much love
Joy and Jamie Lauchlan
Much respect
Patricia Munro
We send our love to you
Leave a Tribute
Friends forever
The Funny Book
Shirley, did you know you were the first entry in El Rancho's much loved funny book?! The Camp Bookshop was Shirley's pride and joy. One morning a distinguished looking customer from a conference that was in came to the counter with a book to purchase. Shirley lit up and commented on what a great book it was and that perhaps he would be able to start on the book if the conference speaker was boring. (cue shirleys grin and eye twinkle) He replied "Ma'am I am the speaker. "
Another time the America's Cup was on TV in the Baker's lounge and Shirley was trying to manage a stocktake with all its numbers, prices and lists, and keep an eye on the yachting. It was getting very exciting and Shirley rushed between lounge and shop announcing "KZ7's $1.20 ahead at the top mark!"
Once, on the phone, for a breakfast news and support call with Ben and Lynn from CYC the line suddenly went dead. It turns out whilst Shirley and Ben were talking his phone cord stretched across the toaster and it melted right through the wires!
I don't think I was on the end of any of your practical jokes but now I know why Chris and I got into so many scrapes - you passed the baton onto us!
By the way we are really sorry about that wild duck we released in your spare bedroom to teach those girl leaders (Judith and Michelle) a lesson. That duck pooh really does splatter doesn't it. Mind you that orange wall paper was pretty old. Thanks for going easy on us.
So many great and rich memories. Love you Shirley.