It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Shirley Rhoda Whitt, agd 86, at the Lionel Kelland Hospice, surrounded by her loving family.

Shirley was born on January 26, 1940 in Norris Arm North, to her loving parents, Joseph and Mildred Head.

She married the love of her life, Gerald Whitt, on February 25, 1959. Together, they built a beautiful life and raised two children Gail and Lindy.

Shirley was a lady of many talents and was without a doubt, a perfectionist in every aspect of her life. As a wife, mother, and homemaker, she excelled at anything she put her hands to. Everything she did was completed with great skill, care and attention to detail. Shirley always had to put her seal of approval on things before they were considered a success.

Those who knew Shirley well also knew that beneath her perfectionism was a heart of gold. She was a true giver, and those who were fortunate to be close to her experienced her countless acts of kindness, compassion, and generosity. She was always keenly aware of the needs of her family and friends and was ready to help when she could.

Shirley was a faithful member of her home church in Norris Arm North, where she served in many capacities throughout the years. Her faith was strong and a very important part of her life.

Although Shirley and Gerald had only two children, Gail and Lindy, Shirley was blessed with a large loving family through her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She loved each one dearly and spoke their names to her heavenly Father. Her family knew they were loved, supported, and always remembered in her daily prayers.

Shirley leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, hard work, generosity, creativity, and devotion to her family. Her strong character, caring heart, and unwavering love for those around her will be deeply missed. She leaves precious memories that will remain in the hearts of her familyand friends forever.

The family would like to express their appreciation to the staff at Hollett's Retirement Home (The Fountains), the doctors and nursing staff at the Central Newfoundland Regional Hospital, the staff at the Lionel Kelland Hospice for the kind and gentle care in her last days.

Left to mourn and cherish her memory are her children, Gail Gaskell (Bob), Lindy Whitt (Gail); her grandchildren, Tyler Gaskell (Jessica), Crystal Adrian (Clinton), Whitney Gaskell, Ashton Whitt (Danielle), Victoria Thornley (Andrew); step-grandchildren Aaron Noseworthy (Nichole), and Arielle Cox (Jamie); and 16 great-grandchildren; she also leaves to mourn her brothers, Valmond (Vera), Eugene (Loretta), Gary (Stella) and Austin (Faye).

Shirley will be lovingly remembered and deeply missed by her large circle of nieces and nephew, family, and friends.

Shirley was predeceased by her beloved husband, Gerald Whitt; her parents Joseph and Mildred Head; her sister Robina; and her brothers, Barry and Wallace.

"Those we love don't go away; they walk beside us every day."

The public visitation will take place Saturday, September 19, 2026 from 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm & 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm at Sunset Memorial Funeral Home, 10 Bayley Street, Grand Falls-Windsor, NL.

The funeral service will take place September 20, 2026 at 2:00 pm at The Salvation Army Grand Falls Citadel, 33 Circular Road, Grand Falls-Windsor, NL with Pastor Robert Parsons & Major Kristian Simms officiating.

The interment will follow at the Pentecostal Cemetery, Norris Arm North, NL.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Sunset Memorial Funeral Home, 10 Bayley Street, Grand Falls-Windsor, NL.