It’s impossible to imagine our family without her—Shirley Lorraine Howe (Brooks), the heart and soul of our lineage, has left us. Born on July 10, 1934, along the majestic Wolastoq River, Shirley was more than just the eldest member of Sitansisk; she was a beacon of strength, culture, and love as a proud Wolastoqey woman. Her life was a testament to the power of community, tradition, and family bonds, values she cherished deeply as the daughter of the late Thomas Joseph Brooks and Mabel Polchies.
But here’s where it gets truly remarkable: Shirley’s legacy isn’t just in her roots—it’s in the lives she touched. After 71 years of marriage, she leaves behind her devoted husband, Morley Frederick Howe, and their six daughters: Deborah (Kevin) Johnson, Judith (Peter) Adams, Candice (Robert) Paul, Sandra (Ted) Nolan, Shari (Brian Hunt), and Lisa (Martin) Howe. Her family tree flourished under her care, growing to include 17 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren, and even 2 great-great-grandchildren—a rare and beautiful testament to her enduring impact.
And this is the part most people miss: Shirley’s influence extended far beyond her immediate family. She is survived by her sister Maureen (Brian) Fox, brother Wayne (Kim) Brooks, and a network of nieces, nephews, and friends who counted her as a mentor and confidant. Yet, she also faced the sorrow of losing loved ones too soon, including her parents; siblings Mary Ann, Pauline, Susan, Walter, Melvin A., Thomas, and Dean; and her great-granddaughter, Emma O’Malley.
Controversially, in a world that often undervalues the contributions of matriarchs, Shirley’s life challenges us to reconsider what true leadership looks like. Was it her quiet strength, her unwavering commitment to her culture, or her ability to nurture generations that made her a pillar? We invite you to reflect: Who are the Shirleys in your life, and how are you honoring their legacy?
Shirley will be resting at the Saint Mary’s Maqiyahtimok Centre, 247 Maliseet Drive, Fredericton, NB, E3A 2W1, beginning Monday, February 23, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. The Funeral Service will be held on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at the Centre. As we mourn her passing, we hold fast to her enduring wisdom: ‘Her love is our legacy, and her spirit will live on in every generation she nurtured.’ For more details, visit www.bishopsfuneralhome.com. Let’s celebrate Shirley’s life by embracing the values she held dear—and perhaps, by sharing how her story inspires yours.
