Michele "Shelly" Patrice Bushnell, 46, of Humble, TX, passed away Saturday April 1, 2017 after an eight-teen month illness. Surrounded by her loving family, Shelly earned her Heavenly reward and is now in the arms of our Lord and Savior. She was born on August 8, 1970 in Eugene, OR.
Shelly graduated from Newark High School in 1988 and received her Bachelors Degree in Elementary Education from the Ohio State University in 1993. She received her National Board Teacher Certification in 2010, which is a prestigious achievement and honor. She was a dedicated teacher, serving her students for twenty-four years in both Louisiana and Texas. Most recently Shelly worked in Humble ISD as a dyslexia interventionist and small group facilitator at Park Lakes Elementary School where she loved teaching children how to read. She was an active member of Grace Church of Humble where she assisted her husband in the pastoral role over the Children's Ministry the last four years. She was a devoted mother, loving wife, passionate educator, and devout Christian. The love of the Lord was evident in every area of her life.
Shelly will be greatly missed by her husband of twenty-three years, G. Michael Bushnell of Humble, TX whom she married on January 28, 1994 in Lake Charles, LA; her three beloved children--daughter Avery, and sons Grayson and Braden of Humble, TX; her parents, Melvin Lawrence (Marsha) Harty of Groveport, OH and Kathleen Florence (Haynes) Harty of Newark, OH; sister Sarah Ann (James) Randolph of Newark, OH; brother Jesse Freeman (Lori Schnieder) of Gahanna, OH; step-brothers Jeffrey (Buffy Moody) McCoy and Andrew (Rachel) McCoy of Groveport, OH. She is also survived by her in-laws Glenn and Donna Bushnell of Lake Charles, LA; sister-in-law Julie (Bushnell) Hume of Lake Charles, LA; brothers-in-law Derek Bushnell of Lake Charles, LA and Jared Bushnell of Ragley, LA; several nieces, nephews, and cousins; special aunt Mary Ellen Osborne of Portsmouth, OH and Uncle Charles Collins of Klamath Falls, OR. Shelly also had many friends whom she considered her extended family.
Her paternal grandfather, Finney F. Harty and her maternal grandparents Harold L. and B. Ruth Haynes preceded her in death.
Visitation was from 5:00 PM until 8:00 PM Thursday, April 6, 2017 at Grace Church of Humble, 7224 N. Sam Houston Pkwy E., Humble, TX 77396. Phone: 281-441-1111. The Memorial service was at Grace Church of Humble at 11:00 AM Friday, April 7.
In lieu of flowers, a college fund has been set up for the three Bushnell children at this link:
https://www.gofundme.com/bushnell-bees-college-fund

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
April 22, 2017
Michael, I know it has been a long time but I just learned from Betsy about the death of your wife. It is difficult in these times to find words to express feelings. It is obvious you chose a very special partner, and the road ahead will certainly not be easy. I was always impressed by your abilities, an I have confidence that you will be able to carry on to complete what the two of you had planned for three precious children. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Diane Tarkington (Pasadena, Texas)
Susan Ellington
April 18, 2017
A truly wonderful lady went to be with the Lord. Michael my heart hurts for you because I know you will miss her so very much. I know you and the kids find comfort knowing that she is with our Lord in a place more wonderful than we can image. Love you!
Pamela Milam
April 16, 2017
Today I learned Shelly had left this world for one much greater. I became friends with Mike, Shelly and their children through my sister a couple years ago and instantly I felt a bond with this family... they are true Christians. Mike, I will be praying for you and the kids often because I know you will miss your wife, best friend and your children's mother greatly for a very long time and that is something we can't stop - because love is like that, but thankfully we know a God of love that is able to lift and help us through even the toughest times. Always remember... God knows... and He will carry you and your family through this until you can walk again on your own.
Tim & Autumn Jackson
April 16, 2017
Michael Bushnell, I'm so deeply sorry for your loss of your gorgeous Michelle. I've always had the utmost respect for her, she was so beautiful on the inside & out, a true WARRIOR WOMAN. I'm so grateful & thankful to have known her. My heart just bleeds for you and your precious children. My husband and I learned of the news this morning @ Grace 8am service, Pastor Brett prayed a very powerful prayer for you and your family. Pls know we are all lifting you and your beautiful family up in prayers for comfort & peace that surpasses all understanding! Pls know you are loved so much by so many and we are all here for you! Praying without ceasing. We love you! I'm sooooo sorry! The Jackson's
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Tresia Diaz
April 15, 2017
Shelly Shelly Shelly.... How do I begin to wrap my brain around the fact that you have left us for now. For more than 16 years, you have been the truest of friends to me. Who in the world will help me solve "the problems of the world" now? The memories are endless and I will cherish them forever. I have reread all your texts so many times over the past 24 hours and your words are speaking life and faith into me still. Tears... smiles... and repeat... You "got me" like not many people do. Transparency was easy with you. Thanks for loving my kids. I've been given specific instructions by Treston to go love on your family for him. Eric and I are coming tomorrow to do just that. I wish I could have gotten there sooner to say goodbye, but heaven couldn't wait. You are in my heart forever, my beautiful friend . The hope of heaven is sweeter than ever before. I love you!
Lee Haddock
April 15, 2017
I lost a dear friend! Shelly was an amazing friend, wife, mother, good cook but, most of all an example of an unwavering committed believer. She had a calm assurance and gentle spirit. Wise beyond her years and a faithful confidant. She fought the good fight, she finished the race and kept the faith. She lived in beauty and passed in beauty. Always trusting and faithful. I love you my friend! You will be missed. Forever in our hearts.
Suzanne Priddy
April 15, 2017
Shelly Harty Bushnell She was the more quiet one, not one for the spot light, a wonderful dedicated mother, the wind beneath Michael Bushnell 's wings, a faithful servant of God, had a passion for educating children at school and church, a compassionate friend, the best bread pudding maker ever and so much more. Shelly will be missed but I know she will be there to greet us when we cross to the other side. Our love, thoughts and prayers are being sent to Mike and the kids... ❤
Chris Wamsley
April 15, 2017
Today I attended the memorial service for Shelly Harty Bushnell. While it was a beautiful service celebrating a life well lived, it was still hard. It is hard to say goodbye, even if only temporarily, to anyone you care about but especially hard for someone so young. For 15 years now Michael Bushnell and Shelly Harty Bushnell have been my friends. For the last 4 years they have also been my leaders being the Children's Pastors at Grace Church and me being so heavily involved with Kids Ministry. In a world full of acquaintances, having real friends like the Bushnell's is something I have treasured. Even rarer than having true friends, are having friends that are also your leaders and you want to follow them, as I have with Mike and Shelly for most of the last 4 years. I do not take that for granted. Literally hundreds of people have paid tribute to Shelly on social media this week, and one thing that is a constant is that Shelly was a true friend. I can only echo that sentiment. The impact that both Michael Bushnell and Shelly Harty Bushnell have had on my family cannot be measured. Shelly was a strong encourager to my son and he considered her a mother figure in his life during some very rough years. I literally trusted Michael and Shelly with my son's life and well-being. My son is now a nineteen year old young adult, but a few years ago I had asked, and they graciously accepted, that they take care of him and be his guardians if something should happen to me. The irony is not lost on me that when I was having that conversation with them, I had to take 2 to 3 solid minutes to convince Shelly nothing was wrong with me and I was perfectly healthy. I was just trying to put some provisions in place for my son if something should happen to me suddenly :)
While today was a celebration of her life, I can't help but grieve a little. I grieve for my friend and leader who had to say goodbye to his wife and his best friend, I grieve for their children having to say goodbye to their mother at such a young age. I grieve for myself and all others who counted Shelly as a friend, because true friends are hard to come by. I am also saddened I did not get a chance to introduce her to my soon-to-be-wife because I know how excited she would have been. But that was Shelly. A true friend and encourager. I am also comforted that while we all grieve, we do not grieve as those with no hope. This goodbye is only temporary and we shall be reunited with those we care about once again someday.
Finally, if at the end of my life I have had half the impact that Shelly had and Michael continues to have, I will consider my life one well lived.
Shelly, now that your healing is complete, may you rest in peace, safe in the arms of our Savior and Lord until we all meet again one day!
Jimmy and Janice Vail
April 15, 2017
Yesterday we celebrated the life of Shelly Harty Bushnell .
As her family entered the sanctuary, the presence of the Holy Spirit was so evident. From the first song to the last prayer there was such a sweet spirit.
We count it a blessing to have known Shelly and her beautiful family, her husband, Michael Bushnell, three children, Avery, Grayson and Braden.
The times that we got to visit and pray with them will always have a special place in our heart.
Yesterday, as I sat there, I could see Michael and his children sitting on the front row with their hands lifted up in praise. I saw Avery pat her dad on the back and hug up to him and then on the other side sat Grayson with his arms wrapped around his dad and occasionally he would wipe the tears from the side of his dad's cheek. Then Braden, standing tall in the presence of the Holy Spirit, had a smile like his mother had. That is a family that loves each other so much.
Thanks Pastor Brett Jones, Pastor Scott Jones, Pastor Hector Soto and others that made this celebration one that Shelly looked down from heaven with a smile on her face saying, that's my family Lord. Now please bless them.
We will miss you until we meet again Shelly.
Taylor Bridgewater
April 15, 2017
Yesterday morning i attended one of the most beautiful memorial services i have ever been to in my entire life. We celebrated the life of one of the sweetest, most kind, loving & most incredible ladies i know! Mrs. Shelly Bushnell had the biggest heart and she would anything, everything & nothing at all for anyone! I will never forget the sweet memories we shared together from interning at Kids Camp & VBS & helping out occasionally in Kids Ministry & the countless times she's prayed over me and with me whenever i needed it. She has always supported me and told me how proud she was of me whenever i got my new job as a flight attendant & every time i would see her she'd give me the biggest hugs! (I will truly miss those hugs!) Mrs. Shelly, it is still hard to wrap my head around the fact that you're gone but i know you are no longer hurting and you are in the best place you could possibly be, in the arms Jesus! You fought a great fight & YOU BEAT CANCER!
Pastor Michael, you are truly an inspiration! The way you have cared for Mrs. Shelly & took care of her no matter what, is so admirable! I look up to you in so many different ways & i honor & love you beyond words & thank you letting me get to know your amazing Shells & beautiful children! We don't have much family here in Houston, but we definitely consider the Bushnell's FAMILY!
Avery, Grayson & Braden, you three are the strongest kiddos i know. I can't imagine what you're going through right now but the way i have watched all of you honor, support & be there for your mom is truly incredible! I hope that i can be as strong as each of you one day & that God's peace and comfort will overtake you during this difficult time! I love you all so much & i am ALWAYS here if you need anything! #RIP Mrs. Shelly! Until we meet again! I love you!
Marcus and Kelly Waggoner
April 15, 2017
Words cannot even begin to express how sorry and saddened we are to hear about Shelly. She will be missed by so many. We pray for God's peace that passes all understanding for you and your family. We love you all!
~Marcus, Kelly, Brandon & Carson Waggoner
Roy & Delia Cortez
April 15, 2017
Rest In Peace, beatiful Shelly.
Clint Collins
April 15, 2017
I have known Shelly for 30 years. I flew to Newark for her high School prom and a life long friendship was born. We have seen highs and lows together. We've seen love born with our spouses and subsequent children. No matter time or space she remained my dearest friend. One of the most loyal and sentimental people I have ever known. She knows aspects of me that only my wife knows. I was blessed to call Shell a true friend. A friendship that only comes around once in a lifetime if you are blessed enough. I miss her yet I know with certainty she is dancing with Jesus and out of pain. I know the legacy she left in Michael and the children will live on. Thank you my dear friend for showing me what true friendship looks like. Until I see you again in glory.
April Broussard
April 15, 2017
Mr. B,
Your post was the first thing I saw when I opened Facebook this morning. I never knew your Shelly personally, but I remember when you all first met or were engaged years ago when you were teaching German, and I know how happy that made you. I could also see the love you had for each other years later through Facebook. She must be an amazing soul!
I pray for a peace for you and your children and unimaginable strength. I know you have lots of love surrounding you.
May you see God's face today in every face that greets you. May you hear His words in every whispered condolence. May you feel His love and arms wrap around you in every hug you receive.
Much love and prayers...April
Kathy Harty
April 15, 2017
Shelly was my first born and a very determined from the beginning. I remember watching her take her first breath and turn into a pink bundle of joy. Then God allowed to be present 46 years later to witness her last breath and turn into an angel of the Lord's empire. My heart is broken but I know she is okay now - a bumble bee told me this morning. Mike, Avery, Grayson, and Braden, I love you all and know you will be okay ad your loving wife and mother will always be s part of your hearts. God bless you all! Grandma Kathy.
Anna Braden
April 15, 2017
We are so saddened for the loss of Shelly. I am so honored to have known her and worked with her. My heart goes out to her sweet family. I too lost my mom too soon. Your faith in God will see you through this unimaginable time.
Debi Beard
April 15, 2017
Prayers for peace and comfort to the Bushnell family. Your WHE friends fondly remember your whole family, love for music, and appreciation for learning.
Our hearts have been touched by Shelly's caring, strength, and motherly ways.
God bless!
Avery Bushnell
April 15, 2017
Momma, I miss you so much already. I never thought in a million years we would be here but Jesus had a different plan. You were the best mom I could have ever asked for. You were my best friend. Your laugh could make me laugh like no other. And your faith inspires my faith to this day. My whole life everyone always said I looked just like Daddy but now all people can see is you when they look at me and there is no greater compliment. I'm going to try to live every day like you would want me to. I'm going to finish. I love you so much mommy. I'll see you again someday.
Dahlia Brionez
April 15, 2017
Pastor Michael, my condolences to you and your children. The joy of the Lord was Shelly's strength and she showed it with a smile in spite of her illness. May God continue to show His love by giving you and your beautiful children His peace and comfort. I will continue to have you in my prayers. With much love.
Towanna Bowles
April 15, 2017
Michael, Kids, Donna and family. I am so sorry for your loss. You and your family are in my prayers.
Brenda Thornton
April 15, 2017
Sweet Mike and children... when I first heard the news of Shelly being sick... I prayed never thinking that it would turn out the way it did. My heart was and is so broken for all of you. The memorial service was just beautiful... the presence of God was definitely there. I loved hearing and reading all the precious memories so many shared of Shelly. Shelly was always quiet but to the point. Her love she showed and gave to others was something that came natural for her... it was just who she was. The outpouring of people that came to show their love and support for all of you described just what people thought of Shelly and you. I know you're hearts are broken BUT I know that your trust and faith is in our precious Lord. Please always know you have friends from Lake Charles covering you and your children in prayer. Love you all...♥♥♥
Pat Reed
April 15, 2017
As a greeter at Grace Church I remember the first time I met the Bushnell family. Y'all were so sweet! Shelly you never failed to say hi to me and give me a smile. You said you knew the Soto family and that you lived in Pasadena (?). So I told you that you would just have to move to Humble! I am so glad you did! Shelly I loved watching your kids grow into such wonderful Christians with your guidance.When the Bushnell family was called as Children's Pastors I was ecstatic! You left an imprint on so many lives and you will be missed
Norma Fawcette
April 15, 2017
My heart is heavy this morning for my friends, the Bushnells. Last night Shelly found out her battle was over and she could rest in the arms of God. We became friends when they moved to Grace Church many years ago, and then our paths as educators crossed also. She was a mentor to many new teachers and experienced ones alike and a great teacher! Students loved being in her class. Pastor Mike is going to miss his wife and best friend, and Grace Church will miss their children's pastors wife. She loved her God, her family, her church and her job! Love you Shelly! Rest In Peace sweet girl! Praying for comfort for this family!
Katharine Holmes
April 15, 2017
Michael and Kids... I am so very sorry for your loss. Please know that I have been and will continue to pray for peace and comfort for all of you. Much love!
Jon and Nina Martinez
April 15, 2017
Shelly was such a beautiful person inside and out. She touched so many lives including ours. We love your family dearly and will continue to keep you in our thoughts and prayers.
Betsy Polgue
April 14, 2017
Michael, I was so sorry to hear of your loss of Shelly. I know that your faith and your personal and church family will be a comfort to you as you continue your life and service in these days ahead. God bless you all.
Sara Smith-Frings
April 8, 2017
Michael,
So sorry to hear of your loss. Prayers for you and your family.
Mark & Paula Kemerer
April 7, 2017
Mel, Marsha & Family, so very sorry to hear about Shelly. May your memories help get you through this heartbreaking time.
April 7, 2017
Dear Michael and Family:
We are sorry to hear about Shelley, but we're glad she isn't suffering anymore. Please take good care of yourself and your beautiful children. You'll be in our thoughts and prayers.
Penny and Leon Buenger
Jerry & Cathy Gilmer
April 7, 2017
Shelly, Your friendship has been a blessing to our family. Love and prayers for comfort and peace in the days ahead for your beautiful family.
Giles
April 7, 2017
1 Thess. 5:17
Debbie Annoot
April 6, 2017
Michael, I am so sorry to hear of your wife's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Charles Collins
April 6, 2017
Mike, although I have not had a chance to meet you (yet), it seems like I already know you. Shelly was my first Niece, and she has and will always have a special place in my heart. I wish so much that I could be there. You and the kids will always be family. I love you all. And like you, I will miss Shelly horribly. Love (Uncle) Chuck Collins.
Patrick Trotter
April 6, 2017
Shelly will be dearly missed. She was a light to all who knew her. I remember many fond times in Jr High and High School with Shelly. She is an angel and we will think of her fondly forever.
Ralph Castillo
April 6, 2017
Mel, so deeply sorry for your loss , my family's prayers are with you . May Shelly
Rest In Peace
Julia Kerr
April 5, 2017
Michael, I'm so sorry for your loss.
Mark Edge
April 5, 2017
Shelly was one of my best assistants as a college student chaperone/volunteer for our church youth ministry. She was a prolific journal keeper, at one time having many years of daily entries from the time she was a kid through young adulthood. Shelly was mostly my good friend and I will miss her and her listening ear to my many tales of sorrow and woe. She was sympathetic and compassionate. A truly great human being.
Charlotte Ledbetter
April 5, 2017
Mike, I'm so sorry. Shelly was a beautiful, sweet woman and will be dearly missed. I've lost contact with you all in recent years, but you and the kids are in my thoughts and prayers. The Lord will hold you, take comfort in His arms.
Linnea Alexander
April 5, 2017
God Bless you and hold you in the palm of His hand.
April 5, 2017
I miss my nice niece Shelly! I am proud of the wonderful woman, wife, mother,teacher, daughter, granddaughter, niece, cousin, sister and friend she became. We will love her forever and miss her every day. I know her grandmother Ruth was very happy to see her and hug her.
Kristi Edwards
April 5, 2017
Praying for family and friends; for peace to bring comfort, courage to face the days ahead and loving memories to forever hold in your hearts.
Michelle Van Winkle Mounts
April 4, 2017
Shelly you have left a footprint on my heart and I will never be the same. It is an honor to say you were my friend and I will never forget you. Love you!
Jon Pohla
April 4, 2017
May God poor out His love on you and your family. Jon Pohla and family
Tim Newstrand
April 4, 2017
Sweet Shelly, one of the finest young ladies in our Christian Apostolic Church Newark Ohio Youth Group ever! From the very first time I met her, she was in ninth grade, Shelly completely committed her life to Jesus, to our youth group and helping others. Always having a great attitude. My heart is broken. With love, honor and respect, you made me proud!
Kathy Harty
April 4, 2017
To my precious daughter. Your family and friends have been blessed with your love and life. I will miss you more than I can describe. I was blessed to be with you as you took your first breath and 46 years later to take your last breath. I will never forget that night in your home in Humble. Texas.
With love and trust in the Lord, your Mom.
Coy & Hollie Hanks
April 4, 2017
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
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