I hope so much that the joy and faith that were such signatures of Shirley's life will be the signature of mine too. My time in their home was short, but so formative. Thinking with such gratitude and delight of this precious one! Love to all the family.

To add to my tribute about what a great mother-in-law you were to Ivan , I meant to say,.. in the way that you loved and helped care for him. He was blessed to join your family. We, Kevin and I,also enjoyed our times with you and your family. You were such an example of a real follower of Christ .Thank you .From Judy

Thank you Shirley for embracing and welcoming the Woodcock family, not only Ivan ,your son in law, but the rest of his family. You were such an amazing mother-in-law to Ivan the way.Thank you

Dear Shirley, be at peace. Thank you for being so warm, welcoming and such an interesting person to spend time with. I especially remember the beautiful knitting you gave us for our babies. A life very well lived; you will be missed by so many. Lots of love xx

Shirley what a wonderful example of being a lover and follower of Jesus! Your life and testimony has encouraged me many times. I'll never forget when you told me a story about sharing your faith with a non-Christian. You told the person "If I'm wrong about being a Christian I haven't lost anything. If you decide not to follow Jesus you've a great price to pay." Thank you Shirley for picking me up from the Christchurch airport when I missed by flight. Yes, Shirley was willing to give a homeless man a place to stay for the night! It was so much fun to watch All Black games with you. You wore the All Black jersey proud! I know you are enjoying being the presence of Jesus now and have entered into your reward!

Dear Shirley Today is a day of deep sadness and great celebration. We imagine you now running and never growing weary in a beautiful garden with Ron, just like the gardens full of flowers that you loved so much on earth. You have left an enormous legacy behind you with your amazing family and you will be forever loved. Well done good and faithful servant. Xx

Aunty Shirl had a warmth that permeated the room. I think it was the smile that met you when you saw her and it grew from there. She was interested in my life, what was going on and what was important. She had good things to say, to build others up. She spread the joy that came from Jesus with genuine love. She had a similar character to Nana Sterne. Family was the treasure that she held dear. Her love flows through her family. I look forward to seeing you in heaven Aunty Shirl and the rest of the family and friends too! Love Andrew, Anita and Tahi Sterne

It has been a privilege to know Shirley as a friend and fellow Christian. I have fond memories of our time at St Christopher’s and running mainly music. Lots of wonderful times with her and Ron of food, friends and fellowship. Gavin and I tried to visit her every time we were in Christchurch and she was always cheery and bright despite her health issues. And as Shirley would always say, “to cut a long story short” we will miss you. May you Rest In Peace in our saviours arms. Ps who am I going to play words with friends with now.

Dearest Shirl. A very very sad day. You gave soo much love and life to everyone you meet. You will such a vibrant and funny women. You were the best mum to your children,grandchildren and your wonderful daughter in laws. They all loved you beyond words. I love you.Shirl. Thank you for including all of us into your life. I can see you now dancing and singing with Ron. You are happy and out of pain .You will always be in our hearts dear Shirl. Xxxxxxxxxx

Dearest Shirl, I will miss your beautiful smile, your quick wit, your hugs and your blackforest slice you taught us all to make. I am happy you are pain free now, with the lord and with your Ron. We will miss you earth side but know you’re in a much better place. Lots of love Kala and family xxx

Nan words can not express the sadness felt from your passing. As I am also deeply saddened I can not make your service. I will always be so greatful for all your memories and the positive attitude you had to carry on. Your strength and your kind heart will be will missed as will your guidance and support to all those you helped. Keep smiling and laughing as I will keep the sense of humour going. All the stories and memories will live on as I know my girl's were so loved by their great grandmother. May your journey carry on in all our heart's as we always remember you. Rest in peace nan and be with poppa. I am so greatful I had the most amazing nan in my life. Love and miss you so very much. Vanessa