We Remember
CARTER, Shirley
November 13, 1947 — February 9, 2026
It is with immense love and sadness that we announce the loss of Shirley Carter, who passed away on February 9, 2026, at the age of 78.
Left to hold her dear to their hearts are her children Darrin (Lisa Dickinson) Carter and Stacey (Shawn Trefry) Sinclair; grandchildren Zachary, Lucas, Shanaya, and Shawn’s daughters Kaisha and Raeya, as well as her sister Bernice Thomson; and many nieces and nephews that she loved dearly.
She now goes to join those who passed before her, including her husband Jim Carter (d. 2017) and sister Louise Schmidt (d. 2019).
Shirley was born on November 13, 1947, and grew up alongside her two sisters in Kelowna, British Columbia. She was a vibrant, outgoing woman who never shied away from speaking her mind—often with a well-timed bit of colourful language. Shirley had a way of bringing people together and was, without question, the life of the party. Her energy, humour, and authenticity made her unforgettable to all who knew her.
Shirley found joy in quieter moments, especially while cross-stitching or baking in her kitchen. Her apple pie was a favourite among family and friends and became a small but cherished tradition. Shirley had an incredible memory and could recall birthdays, phone numbers, and stories from years past with ease. She took great pride in her home and loved making it a warm and welcoming space for the people she cared about.
Family meant everything to Shirley. She adored her children, grandchildren, her nieces and nephews, and treasured every moment spent with them, and being “Nanny” was her greatest joy. She was a wonderful sister, wife, mother, grandmother, and friend—someone who showed up for the people she loved and made them feel seen, supported, and cherished.
The family would like to extend a very special and heartfelt thank-you to her niece, Lynn Thomson, whose generous kidney donation extended Shirley’s life by nearly twelve years. That gift gave Shirley more time with the people she loved and created many more memories that will be held close forever.
Shirley will be remembered for her creativity, sharp wit, strong spirit, and the deep love she had for her family. She will be greatly missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Family and friends will each honour Shirley in their own ways. No formal service will be held.
Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.springfieldfuneralhome.com


So very sorry to hear of Shirley’s passing!! She was an awesome, funny, crazy lady and I was honored that she was my God Mother! I will miss her! 💔
Auntie Shirley was truly one of a kind and will be dearly missed. I will remember the fun we had during our visits. Any time I use whipped cream Auntie Shirley springs to mind- images of her spraying a mound of it gleefully onto everyone’s pie at family gatherings. Her joy and spirit will live on in those who share her memories. ❤️
Dear Stacey, Shanaya and Shawn,
We are so sorry for your loss. Shirley was an amazing
person and definitely one of a kind. Her posts on FB always made me laugh, and I was always touched at the kindness she showed to Jason and me.
Sending all our love in this sad time. Xo
Darrin, Stacey & your families,
We are thinking of you all at this difficult time. Your Mom was a very special person in our lives and the best neighbour ever. We send you our heartfelt condolences and hope you are comforted with knowing she was so loved. May all your memories give you peace.
Love & hugs, Rick & Celia Hanvold
This world is a little less bright without Shirley. She certainly was an amazing woman who certainly made me and so many others feel welcomed. She was someone I looked up to in regards to having my own voice, to speak my mind, standing for what I believed in and to be a strong woman. I am grateful to have gotten to see you all at the reunion, as well Jacob is so happy that he and Ellie got to spend time with her last summer and to create fond memories together. My deepest condolences and extended love to your entire family.
I’m so sorry to hear my dear friend Shirley has passed away. We shared many fun times back in the day. She always popped in to leave a warm message when I was going thru hard times. And was so supportive. I’ll miss these moments and I’m happy to have wonderful, funny and crazy memories we shared. She was a little firecracker, oh how we’d laugh. My condolences go out to her family, she’s left a piece of herself in each of your hearts. Sending much love and hugs to all of you. 💞