BANGOR – Shirley (Averill) MacDonald, 49, went home to the Lord unexpectedly Feb. 13, 2008, at a local hospital. She was born Oct. 29, 1958, in Portland, the daughter of Mary Ella (Ginn) Averill and the late Glenn C. Averill. Shirley graduated from Bangor High School in 1977, where she excelled as an athlete and student. A unique dual winter-sport athlete, she was a member of the 1976 and 1977 state champion swim teams and the 1977 Eastern Maine state champion basketball team. In 1977, Shirley was selected First Team All-State Basketball player; received the Bangor High School Athlete of the Year Award; and was honored as an inductee to the Maine Sports Hall of Fame. Shirley attended Bates College and the University of Maine, graduating with a bachelor’s degree in English. While at Bates, Shirley continued with basketball, earning selection to the All North Region Collegiate Team. A tireless volunteer, Shirley’s involvement in her daughters’ activities and her commitment to encouraging the development of character and self-confidence through sport were widely recognized. A longtime girls summer softball league coach, Shirley guided teams that excelled at the local, state, New England and national tournament level. Most notable, was Shirley’s devotion to her family. Possessing a true “servant’s heart,” her unyielding generosity and compassion shall forever be cherished. Shirley is survived by her husband, Robert L. MacDonald; daughters, Katy and Sarah MacDonald, all of Bangor; her mother, Mary Ella Averill of Bangor; sister, Kimberly Dickson and family of Bangor; and brother, Stephen Averill and family of Scarborough. Shirley is also survived by several special aunts and uncles and their families, and numerous treasured nieces and nephews. Her sister, Karen Averill predeceased her. Relatives and friends are welcome to call 3-6 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 17, at Brookings-Smith, 133 Center St., Bangor. A funeral service will be held 11 a.m. Monday, Feb. 18, at Bangor Baptist Church, 1476 Broadway, Bangor, with the Rev. Dr. Jerry Mick, pastor, officiating. Private interment will be held Tuesday, Feb. 19, at Mount Hope Cemetery, Bangor. Those who wish to remember Shirley in a special way, may contribute to the Karen Averill Memorial Scholarship Fund, care of Bangor School Dept., 73 Harlow St., Bangor, ME 04401. Condolences to the family may be expressed at www.BrookingsSmith.com.
SHIRLEY (AVERILL) MACDONALD
