Shirley Agnes (Keleher) Mathias

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Shirley Agnes (Keleher) Mathias on April 17, 2021 at the Saint John Regional Hospital.  She was born in Saint John, NB on August 2, 1932 to the late Thomas and Annie (Nelson) Keleher and was the loving wife to her late husband, Roy Douglas Mathias. 

Shirley worked as a banker for a period of time in her early years until she married and started her family, at which point she made the choice to stay in the home and raise her kids.  She was a quiet woman who exuded strength.  She was kind and caring, but she certainly let you know if you’d stepped out of line, and because of that, she was able to garner respect from everyone.  She was the pillar of her family, and loved them above all else.  Her children and grandchildren benefitted greatly from her guidance and acceptance and caring nature, and her unbelievable skills in the kitchen.  Shirley was the kind of lady who never let anyone go without if she could help it.  She would lay awake at night worried about someone in need and wonder how she could help them.  She would give the shirt off her back to someone if that is what they needed to get by.  She was just a genuine, kind and caring woman who will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. 

She is survived by her sons, Robert “Bob” (Linda Gallant) and Michael Mathias; daughters, Mary (William) England and Theresa Ann (Lorne) MacFarlane; 14 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren; brother Thomas “Sonny” (Alma) Keleher, as well as several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.  In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband, 3 brothers and 3 sisters. 

Arrangements are entrusted to Fundy Funeral Home, 230 Westmorland Road (646-2424).  In keeping with Shirley’s wishes, no services will be held.  For those who wish, memorial donations in her memory to the Canadian Cancer Society, Romero House Soup Kitchen, or to the charity of the donor’s choice would be appreciated by her family. 

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