In Loving Memory of Shirley Starbird DuBois July 24, 1938 - May 24, 2016

gettinwet

My greatest fishing buddy - who also just happened to be my Mom - passed away May 24, 2016. She was there when I caught my first bream, first sailfish, and pretty much every other important moment in my life. She was a 3rd generation Floridian, lifelong resident, UF graduate, and huge Gator fan. She also taught school in Orange County for almost 40 years.

She could skipper a 38 ft sportfish, rig ballyhoo, and put a worm on a hook like a pro. In the scariest moment of my life – 8 years old, 30 miles offshore of New Symrna, caught in a thunderstorm that seemed to fall upon us from above, sky black as night, 50 mile gusts, 10 ft seas, with smoke billowing from the engine bay - a bilge fire due to shoddy mechanic’s work - my father running around grabbing/using every fire extinguisher on board, the boat caught in the trough rocking back and forth so violently the outrigger tips almost touched the top of the waves - she was the only one who didn’t panic - she made sure my little sister and I as well as their terrified friends had life jackets on……..calmly climbed to the flying bridge……..got the boat turned into the waves……….radioed the coast guard……..and kept us from being capsized……….with one engine mind you. She was truly courageous. She loved the water – like me - the sea is in our veins (wonder where I got it from?)!

Everyone she knew was touched by her – she truly cared – and her smile lit up a room!

We used to go on long drives together with no particular destination in mind. She loved to simply get lost, explore, discover new things and places…………………so I wonder where she is off to now that she has wings?!

Wherever that is Mom Godspeed! Until we meet again remember I will always love you!!

I miss you.

Hugs!

Little Ben

Grady-lady

What a beautiful tribute from a grieving son to a lovely and accomplished lady. I am so sorry for your loss. Aren't many of us girls around who know how to rig a ballyhoo! Sounds like a kindred spirit - glad I got to know her through your words. :angel

Spineyman

Excellent way to honor your mom. Sorry for your loss.

gettinwet

Happy New Year Mom!! Christmas just wasn't the same this year..........Daniella asks about you a lot! She misses you! Until we meet again.....

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VPzHsueUoUQ

Bigfish5

I feel your pain man. My mom has been gone for 4 years now and I still tear up when i think about her. Wish i would have spent more time with her when she was here.

gettinwet

Bigfish5 wrote: »

I feel your pain man. My mom has been gone for 4 years now and I still tear up when i think about her. Wish i would have spent more time with her when she was here.

Thanks Brother! Same here. We spend our lives just trying to make our way.......about the time we finally figure it out.....it's over. It all goes way too fast!!

fishawk

So much love there in your words. That made me, an old guy, shed a tear myself.
Sorry she had to go.Condolences.

gettinwet

Happy Birthday Mom!

A couple days late as usual huh!! I miss you!

Daniella asks about you all the time........she feels like she never had the chance to say goodbye. Would you please talk to her when you have a chance? I know she talks to you......almost every night.

Daemon is getting really good at skateboarding. More guts then sense.......I guess he is a Starbird!! He doesn't talk about it much but has been struggling. He really misses you too! Would you give him a hug when you have a chance?

They are growing up too fast. Help me not make a mess of these two Mom! I still need you!

Hugs!

Little Ben

justintime

I I never met your mom, but after reading your tribute,now I miss her and regret not having a chance to meet her.  Sounds like she lived a life worth celebrating. There’s a special place in heaven for Moms.