Shirley Hope Reeves, made her transition into the next life on August 14, 2018, a few weeks after suffering a stroke. Shirley was born on Feb. 8, 1922, to Minna and Charles in Providence, R.I. and enjoyed good health and joyful celebration much of her 96 years with us.
As the oldest of 11 siblings she embraced her leadership role in the Reeves family and continued throughout her life to share her beautiful energy, open and caring smile and loving attention to all she met.
Early in her life, Shirley’s mother provided great learning opportunities. The family owned a resort in Old Orchard, Maine, where the whole family worked together. Shirley learned all aspects of the hospitality industry including bookkeeping, and the true ability to stretch a dollar.
Shirley graduated from Brown University and became a teacher for World War II Veterans who were returning home and studying to earn their high school diplomas. She loved to travel and viewed life on a grand scale–visiting Buckingham Palace, cruising on luxury ocean liners, and exploring various parts of Africa on animal safaris.
In the early 1980s, Shirley moved to Saugatuck, into a lovely home on the shore of Lake Michigan. She welcomed numerous friends and enjoyed playing cards, often into the early hours of the morning.
During the last eight years of Shirley’s life she lived with her dear friend Dennis Konarski in Saugatuck, where they also attended Douglas United Church of Christ. Shirley continued to enjoy an ever-expanding circle of loved ones in her new home where the doors were opened freely to gatherings of good friends, food, stories, games and laughter.
A memorial celebration will be Saturday, Sept. 8, at 11 a.m. at Douglas United Church of Christ with Pastor Sal Sapienza officiating.
Donations may be made in Shirley Hope Reeves’ name to The Animal Clinic of Holland, 1106 South Washington Ave., Holland, MI 49423. Cards may be sent c/o Dennis Konarski to P.O. Box 543, Douglas, MI 49406.
“A friend is one that knows you as you are, understands where you have been, accepts what you have become, and still, gently allows you to grow”–William Shakespeare
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