Karen Shirley McCarthy, known "Shirley" by most, 51, of Three Mile Plains passed surrounded by her loving family on Thursday, March 21, 2019 after a three year battle with lung cancer. Born August 25, 1968 she was the daughter of late Thelma and Roger Phillips.
Karen was just 18 years old when she met the love of her life and best friend, Don. Karen and Don married just six months after meeting, in October of 1986, and have stayed a light in each others lives since. To celebrate their most recently passed 32nd anniversary, the two left Nova Scotia for the first time in a big way travelling to Hawaii. 
Although being a mother was Karen's favourite job, for thirteen years before being diagnosed Karen, often going by Shirley, also worked in Continuing Care and lived for the moments in which she was able to brighten someone's day. In her spare time she was a talented writer and enjoyed the company of her beloved family and friends.
Karen was survived by her husband Donald Mccarthy, son; Jason McCarthy, daughters; Jessica Thompson(Lucas) and Kelly Richardson(Paul), brothers; Michael McCarthy(Dianne), and Kevin McCarthy, four grandchildren; Alice, Mikayla, David, and Julia,  and six nieces and nephews; Jordan, MacKenzie, Sarah, Landon, Kaylea, and Logan. She was predeceased by both parents, Roger and Thelma Phillips, Maternal Grandparents, John and Shirley Taylor, and Parental Grandfather, Tony (Tinie) Phillips.
In keeping with Karen's wishes, a private memorial service for relatives and close friends will be held on March 26th.
In lieu of flowers or cards from those who knew Karen, memorial donations can be made to the Nova Scotia Hospice/Palliative Care Association.