September 17, 1928 - January 2, 2025
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Shirley Joyce Cottons (née Bickley), who left us on January 2, 2025, in Agassiz, BC at the Glenwood Senior Home, with family surrounding her. Born on September 17, 1928, on the Bickley family farm 5 miles South of Lumsden, Saskatchewan.
Shirley was the beloved daughter of Bill and Elizabeth Bickley. Her growing up years, with her four sisters, were centered around farm life, helping her dad with countless chores around the farm. She enjoyed riding horses, herding cows, and in winter sleigh riding down the "Big Hill", ice skating on the creek after clearing the ice by hand.
Shirley attended Wascana country school where from grades 1 to 10 she rode the ponies daily rain or shine, warm or sub-zero weather to attend school 1½ miles South of the family farm. After completing grade 10 at Wascana School, Shirley then boarded in Lumsden and attended Lumsden High School from grade 11 to 12. After Grade 12 she stayed on the farm for the summer and then off to Regina to find work. She worked first at the Army & Navy warehouse, and later the Federal Government Income Tax office until she met & married a Regina boy, Tom Cottons, on April 16, 1949. They eventually settled in Chilliwack where they made their home for the past 66 years. At the time of Tom's passing they had been married for an amazing 69 years.
She was cherished by her four sisters, having been predeceased by Olive, Vi, and Joan, and is survived by her sister Betty. Shirley's legacy lives on through her loving children: Stan (Darcelle), Lorri (Gerry), and Ken.
Shirley took immense pride in her grandchildren, Mel (Chris), Graham (Julianne), Jesi (Luke), Cheryl (Blair), Brent, Shannon, and Kevin.
She was predeceased by her granddaughter Sherry.
Her love extended to her eleven great-grandchildren (Cole, Connor, Austin, Alexia, Lilyana, Fairen, Hudson, Morgan, Ben, Adrianna and Alexander) and two great-great-grandchildren (Parker and Chandler).
Shirley worked many years at Keltone Cleaners as a bookkeeper and seamstress, up until her retirement. She was an excellent seamstress, sewing several bridesmaid dresses along with other very detailed projects. In her leisure time she enjoyed line dancing, and together with Tom they enjoyed playing cards with friends and could be found watching their great grandchildren's various activities.
Known for her kindness, fun-loving nature, and generous heart, Shirley touched many lives with her warmth and willingness to share her love. She will be dearly missed by all who knew her and will forever be remembered as a source of joy and compassion.
A private family gathering will be held to celebrate Shirley's life.
We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the staff and management on the first floor at the Glenwood Seniors Community Home for their excellent care and compassion, it was truly outstanding.