Newspaper Article 1999 – Hastings ‘costume lady’ dies

Hastings ‘costume lady’ dies

Hastings’ “costume lady,” Shirley Pell, died earlier this month at the age of 87.

Born in Napier in 1912, Mrs Pell grew up with three sisters. She married Charlie Pell in 1934 and they had four children together, two daughters and two sons.

The Pell family were musical, each playing one or more instruments. They formed the Pell Orchestra in Hastings which lasted 15 years, during which time Mrs Pell was widowed aged 42.

She was not only recognised for her musical talent, but was widely known simply as “the costume lady”.

After making fancy dress costumes for her daughters, her business rapidly developed throughout Hawke’s Bay. She also arranged for Christmas Fairies and Santa to visit the Hastings Hospital on Christmas morning.

In 1983, and approximately 5000 costumes later, Mrs Pell reluctantly passed her business over to her granddaughter, Keryn Lissette, after suffering some ill-health.

Described by her family members as a woman who had gained “a lot of respect and love from those who knew her”, it is no surprise Mrs Pell was constantly making new friends.

She always had an open home on Blossom Day and catered for many people who visited Hawke’s Bay for the Blossom Parade.

She once hired St Matthew’s hall to cater for some 140 visitors.

Mrs Pell would also take in overseas travellers and people needing accommodation at the time of the Highland Games.

She is survived by her four children, 13 grandchildren, 23 great grandchildren, and two great-great grandchildren.

She travelled overseas often to visit two of her children and their families.

She attended all weddings, made wedding and christening cakes, and knitted for grands, greats, and great-greats.

She would also acknowledge every relatives’ birthday in a special way with a phone call and a song.

Photo caption –  Mrs Pell