Shelby Jean Fitzgerald Obituary (1937 - 2024)

Shelby Jean Fitzgerald, known affectionately as "Hagatha" to those who loved her, was a remarkable woman whose life was a testament to resilience, generosity, wit, and love. Born in Portsmouth, Virginia in 1937, Shelby carried the spirit of her beloved birthplace with her throughout her life, from her time in Brandermill and Powhatan to Washington State, eventually returning to Virginia and settling in Louisa for the last 14 years of her life. Her journey was not always easy, but Shelby faced every challenge with resilience and unyielding determination. This resilience, coupled with her wit and unending love for her family, left a lasting mark on everyone she encountered. Shelby's professional life was characterized by the same resilience and determination that defined her personal life. She worked as a Claims Analyst for Securitas Capital One in Glenn Allen, Virginia. Her dedication to her work was recognized through numerous awards, including DCJS certification and various supervisory awards. Even upon her retirement in 2017, Shelby continued to exceed expectations in all aspects of her life. She had a particular fascination with Oriental souvenirs and spent her retirement years growing her collection. Shelby was also a devoted fan of "The Young and the Restless" and found immense joy in caring for her beloved animals. Shelby was a loving mother to Beverly, Richard, Calvin, Sonja, and David, and a doting grandmother and great-grandmother to many. Her family was her pride and joy, and she was the glue that held them together. Each of her family members, from her children to her great-grandchildren, felt the depth of Shelby's love and were inspired by her strength and humor. She was preceded in death by her parents, Irene and William Wheeler, and her grandsons, Allen Shavey, Kailen Sessions, and Joshua Fitzgerald. She is survived by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren who will continue to honor her life by living with the same resilience, generosity, wit, and love that Shelby embodied. As we remember Shelby, let us hold onto the words from the book of Proverbs 31:25, "She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come." Shelby truly lived these words, showing us all what it means to be strong, resilient, and to face life with a sense of humor. We invite you to share your memories of Shelby on her memorial page and to upload photos that celebrate her wonderful life. Shelby's spirit lives on in each of us whose lives were touched by her generosity, resilience, wit, and love. To the Fitzgerald family, we at D. D. Watson offer our most sincere sympathy and condolences. Our prayer continues to be that your abiding faith in God will lend to you a measure of comfort that will strengthen and sustain you during your time of sorrow.