Shirley Joyce Blue (nee Hemphill) , age 88, passed away on December 16, 2024, surrounded by her loved ones. Shirley was born on July 10, 1936, in Limestone, New Brunswick, to her parents, Joyce and Barton Hemphill. She was preceded in death by her brother, Donald Hemphill.

Shirley is survived by her daughters, Linda Blue-Hoskins (William Hoskins) and Kellie Blue (Mark Howe), and her son, Charles Blue (Patty Blue). She will be deeply missed by her grandsons, Tyler Hoskins, Bradley Hoskins, Daniel Blue, and Duncan Blue. She is also survived by her brother, Robert Hemphill (Janet Hemphill), and several nieces and nephews, all of whom loved her dearly.

Shirley was a family-oriented woman, whose love for her children and grandchildren was evident in all that she did. Known for her hard work, great sense of humor, and natural curiosity, she had a way of making those around her feel at ease and valued. She was incredibly organized and loved planning, whether it was a family gathering, a trip, or simply the day ahead.

An avid reader, birdwatcher, gardener, and photographer, Shirley also had a deep passion for the arts. She enjoyed art, theatre, and the symphony. Her love for travel and ancestry research kept her ever-curious, and she had a special fondness for horses.

Shirley had a distinguished career with CBC, where she worked for over 25 years. She began her career at CBC Halifax and eventually became the Director of Programming for CBC Radio in Edmonton. After leaving CBC, she worked at Vision Television in Toronto before retiring to her family home in Limestone, New Brunswick.

Shirley will be remembered for her warmth, grace, and the joy she brought to everyone around her. Her legacy of love, humor, and curiosity will continue to inspire those who knew her.

The family would like to express their heartfelt thanks to Hospice Fredericton for making their mother's final days filled with compassionate care and support.

Please join us to celebrate the life of Shirley Joyce Blue on Friday, the 22nd of August 2025 at 1 pm. The event will take place at the Honourable Charles House, 128 Connell Street in Woodstock, NB. Light refreshments will be provided.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice Fredericton, 621 Churchill Row, Fredericton, E3B 1P5 (Donate - Hospice Fredericton), or the Canadian Cancer Society Support the breast cancer cause | Canadian Cancer Society.

"...When great souls die, after a period peace blooms, slowly and always irregularly. Spaces fill with a kind of soothing electric vibration. Our senses, restored, never to be the same, whisper to us. They existed. They existed. We can be. Be and be better. For they existed."

— "When Great Trees Fall", a Poem by Maya Angelou

May Shirley's memory be a blessing to all who loved her.