Shirley (Synett) Forrest

Shirley Ann (Synett) Forrest age 81, of Brimley, MI was called home to Heaven on the afternoon of Friday, March 21, 2014. Shirley is now out of pain, celebrating with God and the rest of her family. She was born in Sault Ste. Marie on November 11, 1932. Shirley was a beloved mother, wife, sister, grandmother, aunt, cousin, friend, and follower of Jesus Christ. As an active parish member of St. Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church in Sault Ste. Marie, she was raised to remain strong in her faith no matter what circumstances life threw at her. She grew up eager to work hard and enjoy the life God had provided her. She made it her mission to set a great example for all of her younger family members by being a passionate, hard working woman in everything she was involved in. She loved waitressing at the old Manhatten, dancing the night away with her sisters to Elvis, and playing softball or bowling with her brothers. She was incredibly outgoing and could be identified by her laugh from a mile away. Shirley was quick to tell that the most proud moment of her life was January 20, 1961, when she gave birth to her son Joey. From that point forward, the center of Shirley’s life had been him and nothing and no one was more important. Eight years later, Shirley met the love of her life, Harry Forrest. She and Harry spent 45 wonderful years together, raising their 7 children. Relatives and friends of Shirley will tell you that very seldom were Shirley and Harry seen a part; they were a perfect example of what a beautiful marriage looks like – “in sickness and in health, for better or for worse.” Shirley consistently put others’ needs in front of her own and was always encouraging others to pursue their dreams, without reservation. She was an incredibly strong woman, with a “never back down” attitude. She inspired those who knew her to never give up the fight for your life and to “give thanks in all circumstances.” The precious legacy Shirley left behind will be remembered forever in Brimley and the surrounding region. She is survived by their children Joe (Carey) Synett, Rodger Forrest, Ross (Janet) Forrest, Robert Forrest,Richard Forrest Raymond Forrest, and Rachelle Forrest; grandchildren Samantha and Jimmy Synett,Ivy Forrest, Andrew Forrest Ashley Dobrie, John West, Eric and Desiree McCurdy, Jordan, Janelle, and Jamie Forrest;great grandchild Astin Forrest,Adlee Forrest siblings Maxine Forsythe, Phyllis Synett, June Landrum, George (Bonnie) Synett, and Gerald (Edith) Synett, in-laws Pam Synett and Mike Queen; and a countless number of beloved nieces, nephews, and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents Elizabeth and Joseph Synett, siblings Peter Synett,Pat Synett, Duane Synett, Gary Synett, Terry Synett, Larry Synett, Janice Synett, Joan MacInnis, Mary-Ellen Queen, nieces Claudette Synett, Elizabeth (Chicki) Lipponen and nephew Mike MacInnis. Mass of Christian Burial was held 11:00am Monday, March 24,2014 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church with Father Jose Maramattam as Celebrant and Deacon Bill Piche assisting. In lieu of flowers please offer prayers and masses in honor of Shirley. Online condolences may be left at www.clarkbaileynewhouse.com.

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Shirley (Synett) Forrest

November 11, 1932 - March 21, 2014