Obituary of Shirley Ann Pilon

Pilon: Shirley Ann (née Dunlop) -
 

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Shirley Ann Pilon, a resident of Blenheim and a former longtime resident of Erieau and Port Lambton. Shirley passed away on March 20, 2026, having celebrated her 90th birthday just one month earlier, in February.

She was born in Chatham to the late Owen and Mabel (Hoyles) Dunlop. Shirley was the beloved wife of the late David William Pilon (2011) for 58 years, and together they lived and raised their family in Erieau. She was always proud of her family’s Erieau roots.

Shirley was a loving mother to her four children: Chris and Audrey (both predeceased), Rosie, Brad and Julia Pilon; Peggy and Peter Watson; and Krista and Mike Gladstone. She was a proud Grandma to Cori Pilon; Amelia and Nick Sarantakos; Rachael Pilon; Bridgette Pilon and Brett; Blair Watson and Amelia; and Stewart Watson; and a cherished Great-Grandma to Christopher and Kylee.

Shirley is survived by her sister-in-law, Faye Dunlop, wife of the late Ken Dunlop, and is predeceased by her brothers Dean (Ruth) and Ken Dunlop, and her sister Jean Leitch.  

Born and raised on the shores of Lake Erie, Shirley was happy to see that her family chose to remain close to the water. Having lost her parents at a young age, this may have contributed to her deep devotion to family, which became one of the most important parts of her life. She treasured her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and was truly thankful for the life she and David were able to build and share with them.

Her family will receive friends at the McKinlay Funeral Home, 141 Park Street, Blenheim, on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. A Funeral Service will be held at the Funeral Home on Thursday, March 26, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., with Reverend Eric Skillings officiating. A private interment will follow at Pardoville-Union Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to make a donation are encouraged to consider the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance or the Morpeth Heritage 60+ Club.

The family would like to express their sincere thanks to Mom’s home health care provider, Shay Zimmer, as well as to the many staff at the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance and London Health Sciences Centre for their compassion and professionalism in providing her care. They are all true heroes, each and every day.

Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com.
 

McKinlay Funeral Home
141 Park Street, Blenheim
519-676-3451