Michele Francine (Shelley) Garcia, 53, of Chesapeake City, MD, passed away unexpectedly May 24, 2014 at Union Hospital. Born in Joppatowne, MD on February 13, 1961, Shelley was the daughter of Howard Smith and the late Mildred Smith. She was a graduate of Joppatowne High School, had worked at the Cecil Whig and most recentlyContinue Reading
Michele Francine (Shelley) Garcia, 53, of Chesapeake City, MD, passed away unexpectedly May 24, 2014 at Union Hospital.
Born in Joppatowne, MD on February 13, 1961, Shelley was the daughter of Howard Smith and the late Mildred Smith. She was a graduate of Joppatowne High School, had worked at the Cecil Whig and most recently at the National Bank of Rising Sun.
Shelley was a loving wife, mother and grandmother. In her earlier years she was an exceptional performer, securing championship titles in artistic roller skating. More recently, she most enjoyed spending time with her friends and family at her community beach. Also an avid animal lover, Shelley was fond of all wildlife and nature, especially when caring for her many beloved pets. She deeply loved the people closest to her and will be dearly missed by her family and many friends.
Shelley is survived by her husband Edward Garcia; two daughters, Rikki Dolor Saienni (Joseph) of Newark, DE and Nikki Dolor (Joel) of Middletown, DE; grandchildren Sydney Saienni and Reagan Donaldson; a father Howard Smith (Dorothy) a sister Cindy Blum (Barry); and a brother Rick Smith (Dawn).
A celebration of Shelley’s life will be held at R.T. Foard Funeral Home, P.A., 259 East Main St., Elkton, MD 21921 on Saturday May 31, 2014 at 3:00 p.m. with a visitation beginning at 2:00. Burial will be private. Memorial contributions may be made to Faithful Friends c/o the funeral home. To send condolences visit www.rtfoard.com.
Connie Hill
left a message on May 26, 2016:
Although we did not run into each other frequently enough over the decades, our meetings were always full of laughter and reminiscing. You were such a lovely, caring, compassionate person and I enjoyed our conversations, no matter how limited they were at times. God Bless you and your family Shelley -- you will truly be loved missed by all of us whose lives you've touched forever. So many happy memories.
Carolyn Leo Huff
left a message on May 31, 2014:
Shelley was a wonderful manager at Chesapeake Publishing Corporation. She made it fun to come to work and her staff was devoted to her. I admired her zest for life. She was always smiling and made people around her smile. She will be missed by so many!
Edward Mckeown
left a message on May 31, 2014:
Family of Michele Shelley Garcia So sorry for your loss I remember skating shows and Shelley was the Greatest, Skating with corky. My heart goes out to the family but her memories will live on in your hearts forever. May you rest in peace.I feel sure she is skating in heaven. God Bless
Bev Seisler
left a message on May 31, 2014:
I would like to thank you for beening my friend. We had a lot of good times . We all will miss you . Rest in peace girlfriend !!!!!!
Corinne Agor
left a message on May 31, 2014:
We will miss you Shelley. I have so many fond memories of you at Starlight Arena. I am so sorry to see you leave us so soon. Tell mama Mitzi Thelma says hello. She misses her friend too. My deepest sympathy to the entire family. Corinne Agor
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Donna Eller
left a message on May 29, 2014:
Dear Shelley, Words cannot express how sad I am to hear of your passing. We had so many fun times together and were there for each other through the bad. If only you could be here to help me through this. My life became so much brighter the day I met you. Just know that the memory of you will live on in my heart and that every time I look at my beautiful daughter, my beautiful red head and your name sake Rachel Michele, I will think of you and smile. And to Ed, Nikki and Rikki, I wish there was something that I could do or say to ease your pain. Shelley was such a special person and may all your wonderful memories of her give you some comfort during this difficult time. Love you always, Donna, Lob, Brad and Rachel Eller
Tina Spedalere Wagner
left a message on May 29, 2014:
My deepest sympathy to Shelley's family and friends. Thank you Mr. Smith for giving me Shelley's phone number so many years ago so we could reconnect.I have so many wonderful memories of Shelley and me growing up in Joppatowne. I will cherish the times we got together over the last few years. I know you are with your mom and one day we will see each other again. until then....keep dancing. I love you and will miss you.
Micki Mattia
left a message on May 29, 2014:
My heart and prayers go out to your family, Shelley. Working with you made the days fun and productive. Rest in Peace, it was a privelege to know you. Micki Mattia
Laurie Amici
left a message on May 29, 2014:
Shelley, we have had so many memories its impossible to select one. Pet store memories..... I know we both still had dreams of the pet store. Those were great times! Cecil Whig memories, dress up days, food days... need I say more? All our great times grilling out at our houses, cooking up food for whoever would eat....The long soul searching talks. I will miss you so very much. I've known you half my life, I feel lost without you. Keep doing what you do, Shelley, and as you would say, "Feed em beans"
Nancy Tokar
left a message on May 29, 2014:
To a great friend and best boss ever! I will surely miss you, and all the fun times we had at the Cecil Whig. I am scheduled to work on Sat, so I am unable to attend the viewing. The Classified Department has lost some great women through the years. But having fun and dancing, is exactly how I would want to remember you. Love ya, Nancy
Deneen Walker
left a message on May 28, 2014:
R.I.P Shelley you will be greatly missed. I remember her infectious smile, she could light up a room just by walking in. My thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends, may you all find comfort in this difficult time.
Deirdre lund
left a message on May 28, 2014:
Always remember you at Starlight, we had fun together an Original Joppatowner:)
Donna Ross
left a message on May 28, 2014:
I have so many little memories I want to share, but my heart won't let me. I feel like it is breaking. Shelley was a great boss, but she more of a friend. Everyone loved her, everyone looked forward to seeing her daily and when they didn't, she was missed. Shelley left a wonderful mark on this earth and she will be sorely missed.
Natalie Turner Crain
left a message on May 28, 2014:
Dearest Shelley, I will miss you so much! You were my vacation buddy and also a great friend. We will miss your sassy, vivacious personality and you were one of a kind! Chris and I both thought the world of you and we are deeply saddened. We will see you again my dear sweet friend...... Natalie & Chris Crain
Shelley Evans
left a message on May 28, 2014:
Rest in peace, Other Shel. You were a force of nature and always the life of the party. My sincere condolences to Ed, Rikki, and other family members and friends.
John Engquist
left a message on May 27, 2014:
Shelley made the world fun. A great friend in those Starlight Arena years. Those shows with Shelley and the gang were so much fun. I will always remember her with great fondness.
Laurie Collins
left a message on May 27, 2014:
Still can't wrap my head around this! But I will say my last memory of you was moments before you passed and I see your face in front of me laughing and smiling while dancing and your eyes were sparkling with pure joy! Aaaaahhhhh....Shelley girl, we're sure gonna miss you! With love and peace my friend. Until we meet again! Laurie
Doug Shelley
left a message on May 27, 2014:
Nikki and family please accept my deepest sympathy on the loss of your mother. Doug
Adana Marquess
left a message on May 27, 2014:
My sincere sympathy to all of the family. Another skater has her wings.
Lynn McLaughlin (Cochran)
left a message on May 27, 2014:
Very sorry to hear of Shelley's passing. Prayers to the family.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Terri Dobbs
left a message on May 27, 2014:
I'm so sorry for your loss Shelly was a great women. Prayers to her family
Pat Thompson (philly Pat)
left a message on May 27, 2014:
Garcia you are in my thoughts and prayers. Shelley you will be surely missed. Love Philly Pat
Ed and Dlores Siegamnn
left a message on May 27, 2014:
We were saddend at the sudden lost of our dear Shelly who has a been a light in our lives and the life of her dearly departed friend and early skating partner our son Steve who we lost last year. Shelly and all of the Starlight friends were very supportive in our time of need. We are currently in Charlotte NC celebrating the graduation of Charlene's youngest Rachel from high school and regret that we will not be present to be celebrate Shelly's life as she did Steve's. Our hearts and prayers are with all of the family. We shaW8QrBre your loss in a way only those who have experience such a sudden loss whould know. Love Ed and Dee.
Natalie and Chris Crain
left a message on May 27, 2014:
Dearest Shelley, Words cannot express how much you meant to us and how much we will miss you. When Eddie brought you into our lives, you accepted us and we could not have asked for a better person. Gonna miss the vacations and staying up talking about everything and nothing at all important. Laughing, Joking, giving Ed and Chris a hard time.....oh how I will miss that. Vivacious, spunky, and sassy just begins to describe the person you were. Love and miss you always and forever. Always in our hearts, Natalie and Chris Crain
Michael W Burke
left a message on May 27, 2014:
Rest in Peace Shelley. Thank you for the love and friendship over the years. Best part of my life was the years you were growing up with Cindy and Rick, the Starlight Arena , the amazing friendship with your Mom and Dad. You were talented, vivacious, beautiful and actually thought I had a sense of humor. You were a terrific Hair model for me when I took my State Boards to become a hairdresser. We aced it!! It has been an honor to watch you become the wonderful Mom, Wife and Grand mother,and Pet advocate. God bless you and yours til I move from here to there too. Michael Burke
David Healey
left a message on May 27, 2014:
What sad news about Shelley. Shelley was always so upbeat and a good person to work with because she was so positive. Unfortunately I will be out of town for a wedding on Saturday but I will be thinking of all my old Whig friends that day. --David Healey, Chesapeake City
Cookie Engquist
left a message on May 27, 2014:
shelley was an good skating friend
Julie Wenz Ramirez
left a message on May 27, 2014:
Shelley, I will always remember our laughs in HS, your graceful and quite awesome skating at Starlight, and that ever present beautiful smile. I'm so glad we got to catch up via in box messages and at Tony's reunion last year. God has gained another wonderful angel . . . .
Bonnie Brown
left a message on May 27, 2014:
Shelley my friend, you will be dearly missed. There were so many good times we had together. Your sense of humor was priceless, your compassion sincere. You were one in a million Shelley..... Love ya, Bonnie Brown
Jim Fish
left a message on May 27, 2014:
So sorry to hear of another of Starlight Arena's family of skaters passing. Shelley as my time was ending at Starlight yours was ramping up. I am sure the organ music will play on and your Golden skates will be ready in Heaven for your arrival. To your family remaining behind your life and memories will get them through. May God Bless them and keep them safe and wrap his loving arms around each of them as they deal with losing you. Some day you will all be together again..
Patty Barcus
left a message on May 27, 2014:
Shelley, I love you girlfriend. I will miss you dearly. You were always there for me when I needed you and you always gave me sound advice. We had alot of good times, and I will cherish those memories until we meet again. To Ed, Rikki, Nikki, and all of Shelley's family - May your good memories of Shelley help to ease your sorrow. She will be missed by many people, which is a tribute to the kind, giving, good-hearted person she was. Know that her friendship made a difference in a great many people's lives.
left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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Connie Hill
left a message on May 26, 2016:
Although we did not run into each other frequently enough over the decades, our meetings were always full of laughter and reminiscing. You were such a lovely, caring, compassionate person and I enjoyed our conversations, no matter how limited they were at times. God Bless you and your family Shelley -- you will truly be loved missed by all of us whose lives you've touched forever. So many happy memories.
Carolyn Leo Huff
left a message on May 31, 2014:
Shelley was a wonderful manager at Chesapeake Publishing Corporation. She made it fun to come to work and her staff was devoted to her. I admired her zest for life. She was always smiling and made people around her smile. She will be missed by so many!
Edward Mckeown
left a message on May 31, 2014:
Family of Michele Shelley Garcia So sorry for your loss I remember skating shows and Shelley was the Greatest, Skating with corky. My heart goes out to the family but her memories will live on in your hearts forever. May you rest in peace.I feel sure she is skating in heaven. God Bless
Bev Seisler
left a message on May 31, 2014:
I would like to thank you for beening my friend. We had a lot of good times . We all will miss you . Rest in peace girlfriend !!!!!!
Corinne Agor
left a message on May 31, 2014:
We will miss you Shelley. I have so many fond memories of you at Starlight Arena. I am so sorry to see you leave us so soon. Tell mama Mitzi Thelma says hello. She misses her friend too. My deepest sympathy to the entire family. Corinne Agor
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Donna Eller
left a message on May 29, 2014:
Dear Shelley, Words cannot express how sad I am to hear of your passing. We had so many fun times together and were there for each other through the bad. If only you could be here to help me through this. My life became so much brighter the day I met you. Just know that the memory of you will live on in my heart and that every time I look at my beautiful daughter, my beautiful red head and your name sake Rachel Michele, I will think of you and smile. And to Ed, Nikki and Rikki, I wish there was something that I could do or say to ease your pain. Shelley was such a special person and may all your wonderful memories of her give you some comfort during this difficult time. Love you always, Donna, Lob, Brad and Rachel Eller
Tina Spedalere Wagner
left a message on May 29, 2014:
My deepest sympathy to Shelley's family and friends. Thank you Mr. Smith for giving me Shelley's phone number so many years ago so we could reconnect.I have so many wonderful memories of Shelley and me growing up in Joppatowne. I will cherish the times we got together over the last few years. I know you are with your mom and one day we will see each other again. until then....keep dancing. I love you and will miss you.
Micki Mattia
left a message on May 29, 2014:
My heart and prayers go out to your family, Shelley. Working with you made the days fun and productive. Rest in Peace, it was a privelege to know you. Micki Mattia
Laurie Amici
left a message on May 29, 2014:
Shelley, we have had so many memories its impossible to select one. Pet store memories..... I know we both still had dreams of the pet store. Those were great times! Cecil Whig memories, dress up days, food days... need I say more? All our great times grilling out at our houses, cooking up food for whoever would eat....The long soul searching talks. I will miss you so very much. I've known you half my life, I feel lost without you. Keep doing what you do, Shelley, and as you would say, "Feed em beans"
Nancy Tokar
left a message on May 29, 2014:
To a great friend and best boss ever! I will surely miss you, and all the fun times we had at the Cecil Whig. I am scheduled to work on Sat, so I am unable to attend the viewing. The Classified Department has lost some great women through the years. But having fun and dancing, is exactly how I would want to remember you. Love ya, Nancy
Deneen Walker
left a message on May 28, 2014:
R.I.P Shelley you will be greatly missed. I remember her infectious smile, she could light up a room just by walking in. My thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends, may you all find comfort in this difficult time.
Deirdre lund
left a message on May 28, 2014:
Always remember you at Starlight, we had fun together an Original Joppatowner:)
Donna Ross
left a message on May 28, 2014:
I have so many little memories I want to share, but my heart won't let me. I feel like it is breaking. Shelley was a great boss, but she more of a friend. Everyone loved her, everyone looked forward to seeing her daily and when they didn't, she was missed. Shelley left a wonderful mark on this earth and she will be sorely missed.
Natalie Turner Crain
left a message on May 28, 2014:
Dearest Shelley, I will miss you so much! You were my vacation buddy and also a great friend. We will miss your sassy, vivacious personality and you were one of a kind! Chris and I both thought the world of you and we are deeply saddened. We will see you again my dear sweet friend...... Natalie & Chris Crain
Shelley Evans
left a message on May 28, 2014:
Rest in peace, Other Shel. You were a force of nature and always the life of the party. My sincere condolences to Ed, Rikki, and other family members and friends.
John Engquist
left a message on May 27, 2014:
Shelley made the world fun. A great friend in those Starlight Arena years. Those shows with Shelley and the gang were so much fun. I will always remember her with great fondness.
Laurie Collins
left a message on May 27, 2014:
Still can't wrap my head around this! But I will say my last memory of you was moments before you passed and I see your face in front of me laughing and smiling while dancing and your eyes were sparkling with pure joy! Aaaaahhhhh....Shelley girl, we're sure gonna miss you! With love and peace my friend. Until we meet again! Laurie
Doug Shelley
left a message on May 27, 2014:
Nikki and family please accept my deepest sympathy on the loss of your mother. Doug
Adana Marquess
left a message on May 27, 2014:
My sincere sympathy to all of the family. Another skater has her wings.
Lynn McLaughlin (Cochran)
left a message on May 27, 2014:
Very sorry to hear of Shelley's passing. Prayers to the family.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Terri Dobbs
left a message on May 27, 2014:
I'm so sorry for your loss Shelly was a great women. Prayers to her family
Pat Thompson (philly Pat)
left a message on May 27, 2014:
Garcia you are in my thoughts and prayers. Shelley you will be surely missed. Love Philly Pat
Ed and Dlores Siegamnn
left a message on May 27, 2014:
We were saddend at the sudden lost of our dear Shelly who has a been a light in our lives and the life of her dearly departed friend and early skating partner our son Steve who we lost last year. Shelly and all of the Starlight friends were very supportive in our time of need. We are currently in Charlotte NC celebrating the graduation of Charlene's youngest Rachel from high school and regret that we will not be present to be celebrate Shelly's life as she did Steve's. Our hearts and prayers are with all of the family. We shaW8QrBre your loss in a way only those who have experience such a sudden loss whould know. Love Ed and Dee.
Natalie and Chris Crain
left a message on May 27, 2014:
Dearest Shelley, Words cannot express how much you meant to us and how much we will miss you. When Eddie brought you into our lives, you accepted us and we could not have asked for a better person. Gonna miss the vacations and staying up talking about everything and nothing at all important. Laughing, Joking, giving Ed and Chris a hard time.....oh how I will miss that. Vivacious, spunky, and sassy just begins to describe the person you were. Love and miss you always and forever. Always in our hearts, Natalie and Chris Crain
Michael W Burke
left a message on May 27, 2014:
Rest in Peace Shelley. Thank you for the love and friendship over the years. Best part of my life was the years you were growing up with Cindy and Rick, the Starlight Arena , the amazing friendship with your Mom and Dad. You were talented, vivacious, beautiful and actually thought I had a sense of humor. You were a terrific Hair model for me when I took my State Boards to become a hairdresser. We aced it!! It has been an honor to watch you become the wonderful Mom, Wife and Grand mother,and Pet advocate. God bless you and yours til I move from here to there too. Michael Burke
David Healey
left a message on May 27, 2014:
What sad news about Shelley. Shelley was always so upbeat and a good person to work with because she was so positive. Unfortunately I will be out of town for a wedding on Saturday but I will be thinking of all my old Whig friends that day. --David Healey, Chesapeake City
Cookie Engquist
left a message on May 27, 2014:
shelley was an good skating friend
Julie Wenz Ramirez
left a message on May 27, 2014:
Shelley, I will always remember our laughs in HS, your graceful and quite awesome skating at Starlight, and that ever present beautiful smile. I'm so glad we got to catch up via in box messages and at Tony's reunion last year. God has gained another wonderful angel . . . .
Bonnie Brown
left a message on May 27, 2014:
Shelley my friend, you will be dearly missed. There were so many good times we had together. Your sense of humor was priceless, your compassion sincere. You were one in a million Shelley..... Love ya, Bonnie Brown
Jim Fish
left a message on May 27, 2014:
So sorry to hear of another of Starlight Arena's family of skaters passing. Shelley as my time was ending at Starlight yours was ramping up. I am sure the organ music will play on and your Golden skates will be ready in Heaven for your arrival. To your family remaining behind your life and memories will get them through. May God Bless them and keep them safe and wrap his loving arms around each of them as they deal with losing you. Some day you will all be together again..
Patty Barcus
left a message on May 27, 2014:
Shelley, I love you girlfriend. I will miss you dearly. You were always there for me when I needed you and you always gave me sound advice. We had alot of good times, and I will cherish those memories until we meet again. To Ed, Rikki, Nikki, and all of Shelley's family - May your good memories of Shelley help to ease your sorrow. She will be missed by many people, which is a tribute to the kind, giving, good-hearted person she was. Know that her friendship made a difference in a great many people's lives.
left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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