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Shelly Ellen Francis McInnes, 54, passed away peacefully at 8:26 p.m. on August 11, 2025, in the family home she had cherished since she was just a year old. That home carried the memories of her life - from her own childhood to the birth of her first son in the living room - and remained her place of comfort and safety for decades. It was also where Shelly said goodbye to her father, John Allan McInnes, who passed away there as well, forever weaving the home with both love and loss.
On a beautiful summer day, with the sun streaming in, Shelly took her final breath in the most loving, peaceful way possible - at home, free from pain, surrounded by everyone who loved her. At her side were all of her children, her beloved mother, and her former husband and lifelong friend Dustin, father of three of her children, whose steady presence was a constant in her life.
Born on February 20, 1971, Shelly was known for her strength, determination, and fierce love for her family. She was deeply protective of those she loved, a compassionate friend, and someone who always stood her ground when it mattered most. Her love for animals was lifelong - Shelly was often rescuing strays, giving them a safe home, and caring for them with patience and devotion. In recent years, she was often found relaxing with her bearded dragon resting on her shoulder and her cats curled at her feet.
Shelly leaves behind her devoted mother and family matriarch, Oma Greta, her closest confidant and partner in life’s journey. She is deeply missed by her three children: Chad and his wife Brandi (sons Grayson and Hayden), Austin and his wife Chanaya (children Oaklyn, Oscar, Onyx, and their baby on the way), and her daughter Chelsey, her pride and joy. Shelly was endlessly proud of the incredible mother Chelsey had become and treasured the privilege of meeting her newborn son Jericho just one month before her passing, holding him with a lifetime of love in her heart.
Shelly is also survived by her brothers Terry and John. Terry’s children include Blaine, Katie, and Chloe, and he is predeceased by his daughter Brittany. Shelly embraced Terry’s stepchildren as her own - Charity, Kendra, and Ducky - loving them as part of her family. John’s children from a previous marriage are Amanda and Justin (with Justin growing up alongside Chad and Austin like a brother). With his wife Kelly, John also has Christina, Josh, and Jacob, and Christina’s daughter Emslie.
Shelly will be fondly remembered by many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. Her loyalty was deep, her presence grounding, and her love lasting. To know Shelly was to feel her protection, her trust, and her unwavering care.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
4121 – 17 Avenue SE, Calgary, AB T2A 0T1
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