Shirley Theresa Dysart CM (née Britt, February 22, 1928 – December 14, 2016) was an American-born Canadian teacher and a politician in the province of New Brunswick.

[4] Her parents were both born in Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada, and in May 1927 they traveled to Waltham, Massachusetts to stay with a cousin.

[8] In 1974 the leader of the Liberal Party, Bob Higgins, suggested she run for a seat in the Legislative Assembly of New Brunswick; she won the seat of Saint John North, becoming the first female Liberal, and second female of any party, to serve in the Legislative Assembly.

[3] In addition to her political career, Dysart held a number of community leadership positions.

[14] She was also the recipient of the Commemorative Medal for the 125th Anniversary of the Confederation of Canada, and the Paul Harris Fellowship from the Rotary Club of Saint John.

[11] She was survived by her son, daughter-in-law, and two grandchildren, as well as two sisters, two brothers, and a large extended family.

[3] Following her death, flags at Saint John City Hall were flown at half-staff as a sign of respect.