CONLIFFE, Shirley Anne Conliffe

On a beautiful crispy sunny Spring morning exactly as she planned, our beautiful mother chose Sunday March 29th, 2026 to make her journey home. After living many years in the depths of Alzheimer’s, mom took her last breath with loved ones by her side. Mom’s talents were unlimited, being a wonderful seamstress, painter, crafter, gardener, farmer and caregiver.

Even through the progression of her illness, right up until her final days, we would occasionally see her reaching out for her needle and thread creating a stitching motion with her frail hands. Our hearts are heavy but peace has fallen over us all knowing she can now rest.

Shirley Conliffe passed away at the Village on the Ridge on March 29, 2026, at the age of 87. Born in Chatham, Shirley was the daughter of the late Walter and Emma (née Jones) Gilbert. Beloved wife of the late Don Conliffe (2016), with whom she shared 60 years of marriage. Loving mother of Cindy Devereux and Don Taylor of Ridgetown, Lori and Shaun Dilliott of Chatham, and Donna and Kevin Couture of Ridgetown.

Cherished grandmother of Nicole and Darren Beuckelare, Meagan Devereux and Jeff MacDonald, Greg and Rachel Dilliott, Jamie and Stephanie Dilliott, Allison Dilliott and Eric Flockhart, and Erin Couture. Proud great-grandmother of Cadance, Maddux, Richie, Reid, Banks, and Campbell. Cremation has taken place. A private interment for Shirley and her beloved husband, Don, will be held at Maple Leaf Cemetery at a later date.

Donations made in memory of Shirley to the Alzheimer Society of Chatham-Kent would be appreciated by the family.

Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com