Shelley Maureen Ketchum was 62 when she passed peacefully surrounded by family and friends at her side on October 27th. Shelley was born December 20th, 1960, in Detroit Michigan. After graduating high school she went right into the workforce in offices supporting staff members. She then moved to Springfield, Virginia and worked in human resources for several years. Shelley and her wife found their home in Cortland New York. Shelley managing for manpower staffing agency for 27 years, and serving on the board of family health Network where she was president for 10 years. She truly enjoyed interacting with people and creating fun and productive environments.
Shelley was diagnosed with debilitating heart disease in 2012. She accepted this diagnosis with unwavering dignity and grace but wasn’t about to let it slow her down. Shelley will always be remembered for her unfailing sense of humor. She enjoyed nothing more than sharing stories and making people laugh with her. She will also be remembered for the relentless passion she had for animals in need. Her home had an open door to so many who received undying comfort and love. She was an avid quilter with a keen eye for combining colors and patterns. She was a fabulous cook and loved sharing meals with her family and friends. Above all, Shelley loved sharing her love of life with others.
Shelley is survived by her wife Andi, siblings Sue Moreno of California MD, Jessica Brown of Virginia Beach, VA, brother-in-law Matt Brown, nieces and nephews Kyle Ketchum of Ypsilanti, MN, Rachel Moreno and David Moreno both of California, MD.
Services will be held on Thursday, November 2nd from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. in Riccardi Funeral Home 69 N. Main Street, Cortland. In lieu of flowers, donations to SPCA would honor Shelley’s memory in a way she would love.
