Shirley Turns 104 🎉 | A Century of Life, Love & Community in Caledonia

Some stories are too special not to be shared—and Shirley’s is one of them.

In this Local Spotlight, we’re honoured to celebrate Shirley, a long-time resident of Caledonia who recently turned 104 years old. Her life is a beautiful example of resilience, joy, and the deep-rooted strength of our community.

Born in 1921, Shirley grew up on a farm surrounded by cousins and the simplicity of rural life. She remembers walking miles to school through deep snow, waking up to frozen water buckets in the winter, and travelling by horse and buggy. On Saturdays, she stood at the Hamilton market, helping support her family’s way of life. These memories, full of grit and grace, reflect a time that shaped not just her generation, but the very fabric of communities like ours.

As the years passed, Shirley built a life full of love and legacy. She married, raised three children, and after the sudden loss of her husband in 1986, she learned to drive at the age of 65—proving once again that it’s never too late to step forward with courage.

Her memories stretch across some of history’s most defining moments: living through the Great Depression, witnessing the heartbreak of World War II, and celebrating peace when it finally arrived. Through it all, Shirley’s sense of humour, warmth, and wisdom have never faded. Her smile lights up a room—and her story reminds us what it means to live a full and meaningful life.

We had the privilege of capturing just a glimpse of Shirley’s legacy in our recent spotlight video, and we invite you to watch it above. It’s more than a birthday celebration—it’s a tribute to a remarkable woman and a life that continues to inspire.

🎥 Click play to hear Shirley’s story, feel the joy of her journey, and be reminded of the beauty of a life well lived.

👉 Don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel for more heartfelt stories from the community—because moments like these are what make Haldimand, the Greater Hamilton Area, and Brant such special places to call home.