As a community, we remember Elsie Shields.  We hold this community, her family and friends in our hearts and prayers.

Elsie passed away peacefully on September 14th after a short battle with ALS.

Elsie is survived by daughters Naomi Murphy and Maureen Murphy (Serge Gascon).

Elsie was born in Prince Albert in 1944 and raised in Edmonton after the age of 5.
She moved to Kamloops in ’71 with her husband and 2 small children. After years of driving school bus, she became the first woman transit operator in Kamloops.

She divorced in the late 70’s, raising her daughters as a single, working mother.
Her independent strength and spirit taught her girls to think for themselves and to stand up for what’s right.

In ’94 she met the love of her life, Joe. They married in ’95 and were together till Papa Joe passed away in 2013. They had many years of camping and choir and he was her #1 fan when she played her hand bells.

Elsie had a strong faith and active social life through church, and musical groups associated with Kamloops United Church. She was a part of vocal choirs and hand bell chorus, even performing solo. Her piano lessons as a child allowed her to provide music to the multi-faith services at Berwick seniors home for those unable to make it to church.

As long as Elsie had a rum and coke, her dog laying beside her, a good friend to talk to and a Blue Jays game on she was happy.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the ALS Society or the Marjorie Willoughby Hospice. The care provided by home care aids through Interior Health Services, as well as the care provided at hospice has been incredibly kind, patient and compassionate. We thank you all so much.

Elsie’s funeral service will be on Oct 26th at 11 a.m. at Kamloops United Church.
Address: 421 St Paul St, Kamloops.

Elsie’s daughters wants everyone to know that Elsie was in favour of bright-coloured clothing to be worn at her service. Please be encouraged to dress in bright celebratory colors.