It is with heartfelt sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, Brenda Shaw, who left us peacefully on November 20, 2025, at the age of 92, surrounded by her family at Charles Lemoyne Hospital. 

 Brenda was born in England in 1933 and emigrated to Montreal with her family at the age of 19. Brave, determined, and full of optimism, she embraced her new life in Canada, where she soon married and began building the family that would become her greatest pride.

Brenda shared 30 years of marriage with Robert Paquin (deceased), with whom she had four children: Christine(deceased), Micheline (David), Roger (Renée), and Nicole (deceased).

She was the cherished grandmother of Sarah (Russell) and the proud great-grandmother of Kaylee and Braiden. Brenda is also lovingly remembered by her brother John (Heather) and their children. She was predeceased by her brother David (Briege, Beverly, Trudy) and is lovingly remembered by his children. 

Brenda was also predeceased by her husband of eight years, David Carmichael, and later by her devoted partner of 26 years, Terrence (Terry) Radford. With Terry, Brenda fulfilled her lifelong dream of traveling. Together, they explored the world—including Europe, Australia, and the United States—and were well known for their extensive adventures across Canada, travelling from east to west in their motorhome and delighting in every discovery along the way. 

After dedicating many years to raising her children, Brenda returned to the workforce. She joined McGill University, where her intelligence, dedication, and exceptional work ethic led her to rise to a management position. She was respected by colleagues and carried great pride in her accomplishments. 

Brenda was a woman of remarkable energy and organization. She was a committed member of her church community (United Church, Greenfield Park) and organized many successful events and fundraisers. For more than 60 years, she was a devoted member of the Order of the Eastern Star, serving with distinction as Worthy Grand Matron of Quebec in 1988. 

In her early eighties, Brenda decided to rekindle her interest in playing the piano and took art classes as well as cooking lessons.

Socially active and intellectually curious, Brenda remained engaged with life until the very end. She treasured conversation, connection, and community. She was not only a cherished friend but a mentor to many women—offering wisdom, encouragement, and guidance that left a lasting impact on those fortunate enough to know her.

 She leaves a deep and meaningful imprint on her dear friend Katherine, and on Katherine’s children—Zia, Lucas, and Raphael—who held a very special place in her heart. 

Brenda’s warmth, strength, generosity, and spirited love of life will be profoundly missed. Her legacy lives on in her family, her community, and the countless lives she touched.

                              In loving memory.

  A Visitation and Memorial Service will be held on: 

                        Friday, December 5, 2025 

                      Greenfield Park United Church 

              335 Springfield Street, Greenfield Park

          10:30 AM –Visitation and Memorial Service 

                           12:00 PM – Reception 

Family and friends are warmly invited to gather in remembrance and celebration. 

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations to the Montreal Gazette Christmas Fund or the War Amps (Quebec).