Shirley White OAM

It is with great sadness that we acknowledge the passing of Shirley White OAM who gave 42 years of dedicated service to House with No Steps (now Aruma).

July 4, 2017

It is with great sadness that we must acknowledge the passing of Shirley White OAM. Shirley gave 42 years of dedicated service to House with No Steps (now Aruma) and was instrumental in shaping our organisation.

Shirley began to work with us in 1965 when she was appointed to the Executive Committee as the Director of Fundraising and Accounts. She later took over from our Founder Lionel Watts as Chief Executive Officer, and continued in this position for 20 years until her retirement in 2006.

Shirley had a clear vision for our organisation and worked tirelessly across her career to see this fulfilled. She was strong, ambitious, efficient, and kind, and made many strong and lasting connections with others at our organisation. Those who were fortunate enough to know and work with Shirley, held her in great esteem and affection.

Shirley was honoured for her services to people with a disability, with the awarding of a Medal of the Order of Australia in the Queen’s Birthday Awards. She was also the recipient of the prestigious Manly Daily Centenary Medal for her contribution to Health and Welfare.

On behalf of our Board of Directors, our staff, and our customers, we extend our deepest personal sympathies to Shirley’s family and friends, and our sincere gratitude for her dedication and support to our organisation.