Nellie Elizabeth Shaver (nee Burtt)

Nellie had a significant presence in this world as a wife, mother, Nanny, sister, aunt, mentor, nurse, neighbour, and a thoughtful, kind friend to all.

She was born in Fredericton, New Brunswick to parents Edith and James Burtt, and died peacefully at home, surrounded by family in her 103rd year. An incredible life well lived, deeply loved, and an inspiration to so many. Affectionately known to many as “Nanny.” She had a sense of peace, calm, love and compassion.

Beloved wife of the late Wilson Manley Shaver (1995). Loving mother of the late Elizabeth Moore (late Richard), the late Beverley Smith, Valerie Vickers (John), and Rena Retallick (Paul).

Much loved Nanny to Danielle, Melissa and Michelle Kennedy; Timothy (Marina), Julie (Trevor), Brian, and Amy Smith; Ian (Shannon) and Adam (Meredith) Vickers; and Stephen (Cynthia) and Shaun Retallick.

Loving great-grandmother to 15 great-grandchildren: Owen, Leah, Matthew, Nathan, Miles, Lewis, Emerson, Maxwell, Brinley, Briar, Landon, Wren, Francis, John and the late Angela.

Fondly remembered by many nieces, nephews, other extended family, and friends.

Predeceased by her parents, James and Edith (nee Thompson) Burtt; sisters, Catherine Smith (Max) and Marian Currelly (Paul).

A member of the greatest generation, she lived through the Great Depression, World War II, and the reigns of five monarchs!

She will be remembered for her profound love of family, her deep abiding faith, her kindness, love of nature and gardening, her patience and incredible ability to accept change and continually learn new things. She truly was special to all who knew and loved her.

Loving appreciation to her granddaughter, Melissa, for her constant, compassionate care. Special thanks for exceptional care from: Betty Kennedy; Tracy, Tara and Holly (Flourish); Melanie, Tracey and Honour (VON); and Cailin, Melanie, Ainsley and Sunita (St. Elizabeth). A heartfelt thank you to Dr. Emma Smith for end-of-life care.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Nellie’s memory can be made to Northumberland Hills Hospital, Cobourg, or St. Andrew’s Church, Cobourg.

Nellie’s Celebration of Life will be held Friday July 10th at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, 200 King St. West, Cobourg. Visitation from 10:00am - 11:00am followed by a service at 11:00am. A reception will follow at the Columbus Community Centre, 232 Spencer St., Cobourg from 12:30pm -3:00pm.


“We come to the earth, we return to the earth,
and in between we garden.”
- author unknown