He was their second child and only son. His older sister Patricia predeceased him in December 1995, and he is survived by two younger sisters, Margaret Williamson and Elizabeth Shirley, both of Buderim, Queensland.

Charles was uncle and great uncle to Margaret's family.

From an early age, Charles wanted to be a lawyer and he studied through the Solicitors' Admission Board to qualify as an Attorney, Solicitor and Proctor of the Supreme Court of NSW on May 2, 1952, shortly after his 24th birthday.

He commenced his studies in Sydney, but later transferred to Nowra when his father was transferred to become Sergeant in Charge of the Nowra Police district in late 1947.

Charles transferred his Articles of Clerkship to Mr Hector McDonald, partner in the firm now known as Marriott Oliver & Co.

Charles set up his practice, originally in Wollongong, then later transferred to Nowra and for some years visited Milton after its only solicitor closed his practice there.

In 1975 Charles married Ruth Emery of Wogamia, but the marriage ended in divorce after about 20 years.

Charles passed away suddenly on April 26, 2019, but he had gradually found difficulty in coping with every day living as his health declined over the last few years.

However, Charles was able to undertake limited legal work, and at the time of his death had held a practising certificate for only a few days short of 67 years.

Charles gave significant service to this community, not only giving pro bono legal advice to those who needed help, but also in the wider community as a Councillor of Shoalhaven Shire, then some years as Shire President.

He spent time on the Shoalhaven Hospital Board, fighting to get a modern hospital built for the rapidly expanding town. He was a foundation member of the Nowra Lions Club and not long before his death, he attended the Club's 60th anniversary dinner.

He was a very early member of the Liberal Party of Australia, joining when he was a teenager, and later as president of the Nowra branch and active at a regional level.

He maintained a keen interest in politics and current affairs and was happiest being able to discuss politics and current affairs and have a laugh and a joke with friends and family.

A memorial service to celebrate the life of Charles Shirley will be held at All Saints Anglican Church, Cnr Berry & Plunkett Streets at 3.30pm on Wednesday, June 19, and afterwards at the Sportsmen's club, Greenwell Point Road, Nowra from 4.30pm to 6.30pm.

His family invite you to join his family, friends and colleagues to remember Charles. If anyone wishes to have a few words at the club function, you would be very welcome to do so.