Glen Allen, Virginia
SHEPHERD, Shelly Bechtel. As we stared off into the sunset on January 14, 2011, Shelly Bechtel Shepherd sailed off aboard her pirate ship, accompanied by her late father, Frank Shepherd, and her beloved dogs, Buster and Strider. Shelly leaves behind a reputation as a nationally recognized watercolorist with her mast flowing at VisArts in Richmond. Her artwork is held in treasure chests around the world. On the dock, Shelly leaves her adored son, Henry Pittman and his incredible first mate, Shani. She also leaves her beloved "friemily" and crew of students. May we raise our flasks to toast Shelly, "Safe journey m' lady, you will be missed." A celebration of her life will be held on Saturday, January 22, at 2 p.m. in the watercolor classroom at VisArts at 1812 West Main St. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the SPCA in the name of Buster the Mutt, St. Mary's Hospice or VisArts.
This obituary was originally published in the Richmond Times-Dispatch.
I miss you so much Mom. I need your advice so often. I still want to call you. You always made me feel so special and loved. You knew I could do anything. I miss you and love you. Happy mothers day.
Henry Pitman
May 13, 2018 | Los Angeles, CA | Family
Virginia Watercolor Society awards banquet, 2006
I only met Shelly once, but she was immediately, apparently wonderful and I've thought of her so often since, knowing that she was battling illness and hoping to see her continued presence on the art scene. This (somewhat blurry) photo was from the 2006 VWS banquet in Staunton, just after she learned she had won an award for one of her strikingly lovely paintings. My condolences to all her friends and family.
Gina Noelle Ash
April 05, 2011 | Gainesville, VA
My condolences to Jeanne, Henry (whom I've never met), and all of Shelly's friends. I'll always remember the good times we had. The photo is a never seen by anyone but me of Shelly the night she stopped by and told me she was pregnant (with Henry). Her eyes and smile tell it all.
Jim Patterson
February 19, 2011 | Lynchburg, VA
We miss Shelly everyday but know she is in Heaven painting up a storm. She is always in our heart.
Sharon and Lee Saloutos
January 31, 2011 | Richmond, VA
I am so thankful for Shelly's part in my life. She was fun to be with, loving and so creative. She was the mother of my oldest grandson, Henry. Her paintings hang in my home and memories of her stay in my heart. I wish to thank her faithful friends who have stayed by her side through this long illness. God bless you all. Barbara
Barbara Pitman
January 21, 2011 | Rockland, ME
You are an inspiration and I will miss you! Mike
Michael Goodman
January 21, 2011 | Charlottesville, VA
