Shirley Susan Metcalf

Shirley Susan Metcalf (Phalen)

It is with deep sorrow and much love that we mourn the passing of Shirley Susan Metcalf (Phalen), who passed away on May 30, 2025 at the age of 94, in her Mill Village home.

Shirley was born in Mill Village, to Charles Firth Phalen and Sarah Jane Phalen. She was a beloved wife, mother, daughter, grandmother and great grandmother. She earned a Red Cross Nursing Assistant certificate in Halifax which led her to work in the healthcare services in Northern Ontario and Larchmont New York. While in New York City, she met and married a Jazz musician “ Louis Metcalf” and settled into family life in Jamaica, Queens with 5 adorable rambunctious children. In 1970 she returned home to Mill Village with her family to care for her ailing mother. She also frequently offered senior care among local residents. Throughout the years Shirley loved entertaining, cooking and especially sharing her delicious lasagna and boston baked beans dishes with friends, as well as frequent offerings to the MIll Village Community Hall supper events. Always a curious and concerned environmentalist, she would often be seen collecting garbage while on her daily walks and proudly collecting antique glass bottles she found from digging around old deserted and overgrown foundations. In addition, she struck a strong interest and belief in natural plant remedies, often applying them to herself and her beloved pets.

During the latter part of Shirley’s life she preferred being home alone, focused on maintaining her home, gardening and watching the views of the Medway River from her back deck. Forever curious and intelligent, she possessed a great sense of humor and easily extended kindness to many stray cats who found refuge in her barn. Shirley was most proud of her signature short shiny and all natural black hair which remained evident up to the day she passed.

Finally, known for being stubborn, determined and very proud, she was very successful in living independently in her Mill Village home that she loved so much.

She is survived by her children, Louis, Jay [Tracey], Savannah [Thomas], Patrick, several grandchildren and great grandchildren, and predeceased by Husband Louis Metcalf, son Charles.

Cremation has taken place under the direction of Chandlers’ Funeral Home, Liverpool, NS. A life celebration will be held at a later date. Online condolences may be made below.

In honoring Shirley’s wishes and in her memory, donations to the Queens County Food Bank would be greatly appreciated!