Shirley Elizabeth (Thayer) Carey went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, January 27th, 2026 at the age of 96. She was born June 21st, 1929 in Athol, Massachusetts, daughter of Elton Verne Thayer and Dorothy Mae (Case) Thayer. She was pre-deceased by her beloved husband of 50 years, Donald A. Carey. She is survived by her sister, Greta Purrington of Rindge, N.H., and broth-er, Verne Thayer of Milford, MA. Her daughter, Donna Carey of Manchester, N.H., and son, Barnard Carey of Clarksville, TN., and his wife, Jackie. Laura Hurst of Hudson, ME., Rosemary Carey of Keene, N. H., and Julie Carey of Maui, HI. She had numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Shirley spent her early years on her grandparents' farm in Readsboro, VT., and then moved to Keene, graduating from Keene High School. Shirley enjoyed many crafts and made beautiful sweaters for children and grandchildren. She sewed lovely quilts for many people. She loved to write family history stories and then illustrate them. Shirley was an avid genealogist. She lived in Keene for 80 years and had many friends. She worked for HCS hospice, IGA as a florist and cashier, the Giant Store, and Keene Community Hospital as a nurse's aide.

Mom loved her horses and ponies on her little farm on the West Surry Road. Her gardens were large enough to provide for her family each year. She loved cooking and had her own canned produce and frozen game from Dad's hunting and fishing. They had created a home of humble beauty and happiness. For many years she has held the dream to be reunited with Daddy in heaven. It is now a reality for all of our family. Bless you Mom.