Elizabeth “Lizzie” (Whitty) Shea

With broken hearts, we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved mother, Elizabeth “Lizzie” Whitty Shea, age 89, at her home on Tuesday, September 9th, surrounded by her loving family.

Lizzie was born on June 11, 1936, the sixth child of Matthew and Elizabeth “Bessie” (MacDonald) Whitty. She spent her early years working at the fish plant in Ingonish Ferry, where she met the love of her life, Austin “Aussie.” They married on August 25, 1953, and together raised three children: Terry (Cheryl), Clara (Joe), and Cathy.

Throughout her life, Mom held many roles—school custodian, housekeeper for her son, and childcare provider alongside her daughter. She lovingly cared for most of her grandchildren, taking them to the beach, driving them to and from school, and filling their lives with love and laughter. She enjoyed playing Bingo, attending card games with her daughter-in-law Cheryl, sipping a good cup of tea, and feeding anyone who came to her door. No one ever left her home without a full belly, a full heart, and her waving goodbye from the doorstep until they were out of sight.

In her final days, we shared stories, laughter, and precious time with Mom. She reminded us to never forget how deeply she loved us, that her life was filled with happiness, and that she had “the greatest day ever.”

Lizzie was predeceased by her parents; her loving husband, Aussie; her infant sons, Teddy, Peter, and Joseph; son-in-law Joe; brothers Dan, Tim, Clarence, and Billy; and sisters Mary, Clara, and Alberta.

She is survived by her children Terry (Cheryl), Clara (Joe), and Cathy; grandchildren Tina, Karen, Amy, Mitch, Candace, Brenden, Dalton, and her “special girl” Keira; eleven great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. Also left to mourn are her sister Genny and brother Melvin. Though she had a way of making each of us feel like her favorite, she always insisted that she loved us all the same.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the doctors, nurses, palliative care team, home care staff, and caregivers for their compassion and kindness shown to Mom.

Visitation will be held at the family home, 30 Harbour Drive, Ingonish Beach, on Thursday, September 11, and Friday, September 12, from 2–4 p.m. and 6–8 p.m. A Funeral Mass will take place on Saturday, September 13, at 11 a.m. at St. Peter’s Catholic Church, Ingonish, with burial to follow.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Elizabeth “Lizzie” (Whitty) Shea, please visit our floral store.