It is with great sadness that the family of Clayton Donald Shirley of Amherst announces his passing at the age of 69 on Monday, May 21, 2012 at Cumberland Regional Health Care Centre, Upper Nappan, NS.
Born in Plaster Rock, NB he was a son of the late Bill and Margaret (Agnew) Shirley.
Clayton worked in his younger years with his dad logging in the woods and later as a transport truck driver and then for the past 20 yrs as a carpenter and handyman. Clayton loved to talk and was known by his brother and sisters (and others) as "Gabby". He was a friend to all and would always be there to lend a helping hand if needed. He loved bluegrass music and always tried to follow his step-grandson Larry Rushton and Blue Horizon Bluegrass Band Whenever possible.
He is survived by his wife of 26 yrs Evelyn (Boss) Rushton, one daughter Kimberley (Kevin) Archibald of Truro and one son Michael Shirley of Halifax, three step sons Larry (Marilyn) Rushton of River Hebert, Terry Rushton of Elmsdale, NS and Rod (Nancy) Rushton of Lower Sackville, NS, one granddaughter and one grandson, 9 step grandchildren and 13 step great grandchildren.
Clayton is also survived by 1 brother Kenneth (Polly) Shirley of Yarmouth, NS, 3 sisters Bertha Hoffman of Sydney, NS, Madeline Carey and Lillian Vinton both of Brooks, Alberta, also several nieces and nephews.
Besides his parents, Clayton was predeceased 1 sister Greta Hansen and 4 brothers, Hugh, Ray, Reg and Norman Shirley.
Visitation will be held on Thursday from 7-9 p.m. in Campbell's Funeral Home, Amherst.
Funeral service will be held on Friday, May 25, 2012 at 2 p.m. from Campbell's Chapel with Rev. Susan Estabrooks officiating.
Interment will take place in the Lorneville Cemetery at a later date.
No flowers by request.
Memorial donations to the L.A. Animal Shelter would be appreciated.
Online condolences may be made to the family via: www.campbellsamherst.ca