Shirley (Beal) Bonnell, Truro. – The Bonnell family sadly announces the passing of their amazing Mother, Shirley, on Monday evening, November 23, 2009, at home with family at her side. Her life was never diminished by her 19 year battle with cancer. Mom gallantly faced her illness with courage, strength and a brave face. She always surprised us with her ability to encourage others and be an inspiration to everyone. Shirley was predeceased by her husband, Laurie; grandson, Frank Mellish; sisters, Betty Taylor and Christina Bennett; niece, Rita Morrisey; parents, Albert and Alice (Stevenson) Beal. She is survived by her 10 children, Fred (Anne Marie), Edmonton; Frank (Janice), Bible Hill; John (Caren), Bible Hill; Dick, Truro; Laurie (Danette), Truro; Billy (Cathy), Bible Hill; Susan (Hallie) Hamilton, Middle Stewiacke; Leah (Steve) Beirnes, Edmonton; Mary (Matthew) Teed, Masstown; Christina Bonnell (Darren Harrison), East Mountain. She is also survived by her brother, Toby Beal, Five Islands; several nieces and nephews; 19 great grandchildren; 19 much loved grandchildren, namely Steve Arsenault who she considered to be her 11th child. Shirley was the pillar of the family her entire life, influencing, loving and caring for the flock right into her final days. She will be missed by them and by countless others who knew her as a second mom. She will be missed by her many friends, namely Verna Mahar, Ada Sheaves and the members of the Young at Heart Club. Mom, Ada and Verna enjoyed many happy years residing together at Kiwanis Pond. Our Mother was a wonderful baker and was employed at Snooks and Ryans IGA. She also enjoyed playing bingo and watching hockey and wrestling. She was XXL’s number one fan. Mom kept up with the times, learning to use the internet to keep in touch with friends and family near and far. Funeral service and reception will be held 2 pm Friday, November 27, 2009, in Mattatall~Varner Funeral Home, 55 Young Street, Truro, The Reverend Lori Ramsey and Reverend Don MacQueen officiating. Private family interment will be held in Terrace Hill Cemetery. Private messages of condolence may be sent to the family by visiting the “Guest Book” at: www.mattatallvarnerfh.com