Shirley Arlene (Hubbard) Burns

Shirley Arlene (Hubbard) Burns, wife of the late Lawrence J. Burns, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 6, 2023 at the Miramichi Regional Hospital the age of 85.

Born on May 23, 1937 in Newcastle, NB she was the daughter of the late William “Willie” and Irene (Bryenton) Hubbard. 

She is survived by her daughter, Lois Oldfield (Kenny), and two sons, Wayne Burns (Darla) and Paul Burns (Paula); four grandchildren, Cathy Wallace, Larry Burns (Crystal), Michael Burns (Jenna), and Erin Burns (Christopher Foran); and five great-grandchildren, Jonathan, Walker, Parker, Flynn, and Kennedy. As well, she is survived by sisters-in-law, Monica Hovey and Anna Curtis and brothers-in-law, Leo Burns (Susan) and Donald Burns (Joan) and many nieces and nephews.

Besides her parents and husband, she was pre-deceased by her sisters, Margaret Gilks (William) and Gladys Manderville and brothers, Wilson Hubbard (Carol) and Gerald Hubbard (Izella); sisters-in-law, Helene McIntyre (Thomas), Mabel Dodds (Peter), Anne Burns and brothers-in-law, William Burns (Rose Marie) and Mac Hovey, her niece Sylvia Hallihan and her grandson, Paul Wallace.

In 1956, Shirley graduated from Teacher’s College in Fredericton, NB and enjoyed a 33 year career teaching elementary school. On June 1, 1957, she married the love of her life, Lawrence, and they built a life together with their three children in Newcastle, NB. Over the years, Shirley enjoyed playing cards and bingo with her friends and family and spending hours tending to her beautiful flower beds. She was an expert at pickling and her preserves were enjoyed by many across Canada and the USA. 

She was a fabulous knitter and generously shared her creations with many, whether it be an intricate baby set or a pair of her famous socks. Shirley loved watching sports and travelled far and wide to see her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren enjoy playing them. Shirley enjoyed many state-side trips where she would find the most unique and perfect Christmas gifts for everyone on her list. In her later years, she especially enjoyed doting on her loving fur-baby, Blake.

Shirley will be remembered for her generosity, kindness, and gift for making others feel special. She will be sadly missed but lovingly remembered by us all.

Visitation will be at Northumberland Funeral Home, 102 Pleasant Street, Miramichi, NB on Friday, May 12, 2023 from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm and 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Thomas the Apostle Roman Catholic Church in Red Bank, NB on Saturday, May 13, 2023 at 11:00 am with Father Dan Melanson and Pastor Colin Holmes officiating. Interment to follow in the Parish cemetery.

In Shirley’s memory, donations may be made to a Charity of the donor’s choice.

Funeral arrangements are in the care of Northumberland Funeral Home & Crematorium, 102 Pleasant St, telephone (506) 622-7741. Where your loved one never leaves our care.