Shirley M Charland, 97, a lifelong resident of Trumbull, CT, passed away peacefully on January 12, 2016, at Lord Chamberlain Nursing Center of Stratford.  Born on May 16, 1918, she was the beloved wife of the late Harry T. Charland.  Having been baptized, confirmed, and married at Grace Episcopal Church of Trumbull, she was a loyal and faithful member whose devotion was exemplified by her faithful service to the Lord and her church.  She was an active member of the Altar Guild, who was known for her dedication, generosity, and willingness to do whatever was needed of her. Following her retirement from Bridgeport Brass, where she worked for 40 years in customer service, she continued to lead a full and active life well into her nineties, enjoying her favorite sports of golf, as a member of the Tashua Knolls Ladies Nine Holers, and bowling, as a member of the Early Risers Bowling League.   Shirley was never idle. She would journal daily and was a voracious reader, who enjoyed a good novel.   Knitting was a passion, and even when her hands were in pain with arthritis, she would continue to knit.  She gave away everything she made, including baby blankets, afghans, and her trademark scarves.  If you knew Shirley, then you must have one of her scarves, as she shared them with everyone she knew, as well as those she never even met.  Her pockets were always filled with wrapped candies that she handed out to anyone she stopped to talk with. In the warmer months Shirley loved flower gardening, especially daffodils, azaleas, and geraniums. Red was her favorite color, as witnessed by the flowers she had surrounding her home, the 1977 red Cadillac she drove, and her ladybug collection. She loved all animals, especially her two cats, Dandy and Sandy, who were her faithful companions. As a result of her kind and caring nature, Shirley was blessed with many wonderful, loyal friends who she remained close with through-out her life, and into her final days. She never refused a request for assistance of any kind, whether it be a ride to a doctor appointment, help with grocery shopping, or cooking for someone in need.  She will be remembered for her faith in the Lord and her benevolent and selfless nature. Her memory will be forever cherished by all who knew her.  Friends are invited to attend a memorial service at 10:30 A.M. on January 20, 2016, at Grace Episcopal Church, 5958 Main St., Trumbull, CT.  Graveside services will be private.  Special thanks to the second floor nursing staff at Lord Chamberlain, for their wonderful care. Memorial contributions in Shirley's memory could be made to the Altar Guild of Grace Episcopal Church. To send online condolences please visit www.redgatehennessy.com