Tubman, Shirley

TUBMAN, Shirley Frances (nee Rotchill) – 1927-2021; Our hearts are broken as we announce the passing of our beloved mom, in her 95th year, on June 1, 2021. Shirley always reminisced about wonderful childhood memories with her parents, Jack and Dorothy Rotchill (nee Maloney) and it was clear she was the apple of their eye. Being Gran & Pop’s only child, they doted on her as much as she did on them through to her final days. As the heart and soul of a large family, Shirley is cherished by daughter and long-time caregiver Bonnie Sinden (Roger), as well as daughter Sandra Rozicki, and son Doug Baker; she is predeceased by her husband Richard Tubman (1991) and loving sons Donald (Butch) Baker (Barb), and Jack Tubman (Bonnie). “Grama T” is adored by 11 grandchildren who fondly remember walks to the river to skip rocks, drink from the fresh-water spring and enjoy snacks. She was also blessed with 19 great grandchildren, and 3 great-great grandchildren. If only we had a little more time with her, we might have discovered her secret to the world’s best KD. Fee, Fi, Fo, Fum…
Shirley loved bingo, Big Macs, and Blue. She could often be found sitting on the porch, chatting across Sixth Ave with Rita, or tending her vegetable garden. (Always plant marigolds around the perimeter to keep the squirrels away.) When the house became too quiet, Fran and Princess inspired Shirley to finally add a pet, and Tish became her tiny, inseparable sidekick. Shirley always looked fabulous and never missed her weekly hair dates with Gladys. Shirley’s years in the workforce included time spent making supplies for the Canadian efforts in WWII, and in retail at Dempster’s Furs, followed by many years at GWG making Levi’s. She was a chauffeur to her friends, a part-time chaperone at the union hall, and a regular at the casino. In short, she was cooler than all of us.
Dementia took a lot from Shirl, but could never take her spirit. Thank you to the staff at St. Joseph’s Lifecare Centre, Canary Path, for the care provided to Mom during the last four years of her life. In her honour and in lieu of flowers, the family asks that you share an act of kindness with a stranger in hopes that Grama T’s energy will continue on. Your cab is here, Mom; until we’re together again, lots of love. Cremation has taken place; interment and a celebration to honour Shirley’s life will be held at a later date when we can come together safely.