1936 – 2013

OXFORD — Shirley A. Lovejoy, 77, passed away peacefully at the home of her daughter, Anita, and son-in-law, Jorge, surrounded by her family and friends on Sunday, Nov. 17.

Shirley was born in Hartford on June 19, 1936, the daughter of Geneva (Hodge) Gagnon and Aristide Gagnon “Butch.” She graduated from Buckfield High School in 1955 and then enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. On Oct. 8, 1956, she married Guy W. Lovejoy of Buckfield, who was also in the Air Force. She was a stay-at-home mom, raising her three children. They settled in Buckfield in 1975, after Guy retired from the military.

Shirley enjoyed knitting, crocheting, sewing and many different crafts. Her specialty was crocheting doilies, which she shared with many. She enjoyed traveling, camping, hunting and fishing. She loved music, listening to her husband play the guitar and singing with him; she was a very talented singer. Shirley directed and performed in the Buckfield Minstrel Show for many years. She played piano and ukulele. She was part of a family filled with musical talent and she loved to share it. She enjoyed following her grandsons’ career in music.

She was a member of the Buckfield Fire Department, the Streaked Mountain Snowmobile Club, the American Legion Auxiliary and a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles Auxiliary. She was a ballot clerk, ran the local Meals on Wheels and made many mittens for operation Santa Claus. She was very involved in her children and grandchildren’s daily lives, whom she loved dearly. She loved playing cards every Tuesday with her very dear friends, “The Penny Players.” She always looked forward to game night once a month with family and friends.

She is survived by her daughter, Cathy Bruennig, of Nokomis, Fla.; her son, Michael Lovejoy and his wife, Karen, of Buckfield; her daughter, Anita Caraballo and her husband, Jorge, of Oxford; her grandchildren, Bradford Samson and his fiancée, Melissa Beauchamp, David Lovejoy and his wife, April, Rita Lovejoy, Ben Lovejoy, Vanessa, Paul Newton and his wife, Karen, and Jessica Newton; and six great-grandchildren.

Shirley was predeceased by her father, Aristide; her mother, Geneva; her husband, Guy; and son-in-law, Rick Bruennig.

Shirley’s smile could brighten up the darkest day and make everything OK. She always had a kind word for everyone and was always willing to help someone in need. Her positive outlook on life helped so many who knew her. She is leaving a huge void in the hearts and souls of her family and friends who loved her dearly.

Please visit advantageportland.com to leave your condolences for the family.

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