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SHELLY STEELE O'KEEFE
1945 - 2016
BORN
1945
DIED
2016
SHELLY STEELE O'KEEFE Obituary
Shelly Steele O'Keefe, age 71, unexpectedly left this earthly plane and leapt into Eternity on Monday, February 29, 2016.
Brooklyn-born Shelly first came to the area some 46 years ago. Circa 1971, Shelly became known as the "singing change girl" at a very small Riverside Casino as she brought her joyous love of life into our desert. She subsequently worked in various secretarial and supervisory positions at the Nevada Club, River Palms and Flamingo casinos. In 1983, she married Robert O'Keefe, an educator at Bullhead City Schools where Shelly worked as Special Education Secretary.
Shelly always felt a natural connection to abused children and animals. Shelly worked hard to reform local and state foster care systems in the 80's, even receiving a commendation from then Governor Bruce Babbitt. She also cared for many official and unofficial foster children during her life. In recent years, her love of animals led her to become a volunteer at the Bullhead animal shelter, where she found comfort in attending to the needs of these forgotten creatures.
She had a passionate interest in the arts. She created many beautiful and unique works of art. All during her lifetime, she had loved Broadway and dramatic productions of every type. She participated in musical productions at MCC and was quite active in community theater in the 70's and 80's.
She is survived by her husband, Robert; one sister, Andrea (Bruce) Spiegel of Surprise, Ariz.; two nephews, Steven Spiegel and Joshua Spiegel.; one niece, Jodi Spiegel; several cousins; and three foster grandchildren. Additionally she leaves behind many relatives from her husband's side that also so loved her, and countless friends from here and across the county.
In memory of Shelly, donations can be made to the Animal Ministry of the Unity Spiritual Center of the Mohave Valley, or any charity of your choosing. Please also consider becoming an organ donor, if you have not already done so.
A Celebration of Shelly's life will be held in late April. Please call (928)758-3811 for details.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for SHELLY STEELE O'KEEFE
Brian Geoffrey Harmon
June 4, 2024
Bob, sorry to desecrate Shelly's memory. I think she'd want me to get ahold of you. Lost my fone on June 1,2024. New number is 423-635-8656. Email not working, but I had to list 1 to submit
Brian Geoffrey Harmon
June 4, 2024
I was the first foster child, moving in with the O'Keefes in September 83. The 9 months I spent with them is the brightest point of my life. Shelly had a remarkable way of making me feel valuable as a person. I miss her so much
Gary & Judie Wooley
April 18, 2016
A wonderful tribute, Bob. Our family will never forget Shelly`s close friendship with our Mother over many years. God Bless, Gary & Judie
April 9, 2016
My deepest condolences to the family and friends. May you find comfort by drawing close to God during this difficult time. James 4:18.
April 4, 2016
You wre a wonderful friend who will be greatly missed. Pat and Larry Thompson
Rebecca
April 3, 2016
We miss your kind and compassionate soul.
John Maloney
April 3, 2016
Beautiful tribute Bob. Shelly is in the House of Our Father. We will all be united one day.
April 3, 2016
I was at the right place at the right time when met Shelley, she was and is a blessing to those around her. She will be missed by all.
me as i use facebook !!
joseph okeefe
April 3, 2016
I really enjoyed facebooking with her , although I never met her personally. if she married my uncle bob , she must be a good person . I regret not having made her live acquaintance - her presence will be sorely missed !!
Kathy Smith
April 3, 2016
Shelly was a treasured friend who lived life to the fullest. Her passion for abused animals was inspiring. I am happy to have been the friend of this fellow New Yorker, and I will miss her very much.
April 3, 2016
Dear Husband of Shelly,
So glad I introduced you two! My condolences to you!
Andrea Spiegel
April 3, 2016
oh, sisterbelle, we miss you terribly. I am so happy that you are free of the pain of this world, and your spirit is finally at peace. our bond goes beyond the confines of sisterhood, and I know you are soaring and dancing(and singing, of course).
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