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Shelley Smith Obituary
Born in Hartford, she was the daughter of Jack and Jean Hexter. Shelley grew up in Tolland, and graduated from Tolland High School. After graduating from UConn, she was a special education teacher in Ashford, and Mary Esther, Florida. Shelley faithfully served her nation for 20 years as a military spouse, frequently acting as a single parent on short-notice in locations around the world and sometimes in very difficult circumstances. She made lifelong friends whereever she went. She enjoyed many activities, but above all, she loved being with her family. She was an excellent cook and enjoyed hosting friends and family. Shelley also enjoyed gardening, beekeeping, cheesy monster movies, and hitting the beach. She was a sweet, easy-going person and a loving, outstanding wife, mother, and daughter.
Besides her parents and husband, Shelley is survived by her sons, Aaron and Justin, daughter, Ashley; brother, Craig Hexter and his wife, Tricia, of Michigan; as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and many friends that she considered family.
Shelley's family would like to thank the wonderful doctors, nurses, caretakers, aides, and their staff professionals who cared for her during her illness.
The family intends to have a celebration of Shelley's life after the coronavirus subsides.
For updates and online condolences, please visit
www.pietrasfuneralhome.com
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Connecticut Brain Tumor Alliance, Inc., P.O. Box 370514, West Hartford, CT 06137 or online at
www.ctbta.org
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Shelley Smith
Matt Smith
June 28, 2020
Please join us to Celebrate Shelley's Life on August 8th, 2020. You can either attend in person in Woodstock, CT or via Zoom. Request further information at [email protected]
Karen Paige (Mueller)
April 11, 2020
Shelley was my neighbor on Robin Circle, and my first childhood friend. She was so funny and kind-hearted, many great memories, and I was so glad we reconnected on social media. Smith and Hexter families, my deepest condolences. Thinking of you all, and keeping you in my prayers ♥
Ray and Melissa Rabano
April 10, 2020
Sending our deepest condolences. I was Matt's freshman roommate at the Air Force Academy and he was always talking so fondly about Shelley. Keeping your family in our thoughts and prayers.
Maryann Kolano (Lashetski)
April 10, 2020
Only sweet kindness and a beautiful smile come to mind when I think of high school memories of Shelley. My heartfelt sympathy goes out to her family and friends.
Jon and Lacy Ullmann
April 9, 2020
We have fond memories of Shelley's grace, warmth, and kindness! The Ullmann's grieve with you and pass you are sympathies and prayers.
Anthony Dondero
April 9, 2020
Matt and Family, I am deeply saddened my the loss of Shelley. I hope you all can find some console in these very difficult times. I will keep all of you in my thoughts.
Tom Ulmer
April 8, 2020
Heartfelt prayers for the Smith family. Our condolences...
Tom and Nikki Ulmer
Cindy and Matt Steullet
April 8, 2020
Words cannot express the profound grief I feel at the loss of the most kind, loyal, loving, lifelong friend anyone could hope for. I am truly sorry for your loss.
For the Hexter and Smith families, Shelley's husband Matt, and their children Aaron, Justin and Ashley, I want to extend my deepest condolences.
Shelley will forever be in my mind, heart and soul.
April 8, 2020
I remember Shelley for being so kind, so friendly and warm when we were all growing up together in Tolland. It sounds like she carried that way of being all the way through her whole life. Deepest sympathies and condolences to her friends and family.
Carolynn Blinkinsop (Mazzarella)
April 8, 2020
I remember fondly the times that Shelley and I spent together as kids at her house on Robin. She was a kind and loving person who I shared the bond of military spouse with in our later years. I am devastated for her family and friends. May God comfort all with happy memories and peace during this very difficult time.
Gerry Raia
April 8, 2020
Shelley was a very special woman and loved seeing her beside Matt. A devoted wife and Mother, she was truly special. I was very fortunate to have known her and no matter where they lived she made a warm home open to anyone. She will be missed dearly!
Carolynn (Mazzarella)
April 8, 2020
Im devastated to read this. Inhabe fond memories growing up together and sharing our military spouse bond. Rest In Peace to a wonderful person inside and out.
Steve Dempsey
April 7, 2020
I remember Shelley well from THS and was very sorry to hear this news. Sincerest condolences to her family.
Jennifer Lamkin
April 7, 2020
Shelley was one of the kindest, sweetest and most genuine people I ever had the pleasure of being friends with. She was a special and dear friend. She will be missed. Our deepest sympath - The Lamkin Family
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