Shelley Martin Obituary (1964 - 2025)

Shelley Renee Martin, born December 20, 1964, in Sandwich, IL, was an embodiment of love and life, a beacon of compassion and laughter, and an adventurous spirit who fully embraced the world around her. Shelley's light was most radiant when she was surrounded by her family, especially her cherished grandchildren, who she often referred to as her "everything". Her love for them was immeasurable, just as their love for her was boundless. She cultivated joy and shared it generously, a testament to the verse from Proverbs 17:22, "A cheerful heart is good medicine." Shelley was a proud resident of Mendota, Illinois, but never strayed far from her roots in Sandwich, Illinois. For many years, she served as a certified nursing assistant, a role that allowed her to express her natural empathy and care for others. Her compassion extended beyond her professional life into her interactions with everyone she met. She was a beacon of love and care, always ready to lend a listening ear, a shoulder to lean on, or a helping hand. Her hobbies were as expansive as her heart. Shelley loved fishing, camping, and most importantly, spending time with her cherished family. Her laughter was infectious, her spirit was inspiring, and her love was a comfort to all who knew her. Shelley is survived by her loving daughters, Jill (Michael) Johnson and Tiffany (Matthew) Bloomfield; her son-in-laws, Michael (Jill) Burt and Matthew (Tiffany) Bloomfield; and her ten grandchildren - Mason Engel, MaKayla Burt, Aurora Burt, Michael Jr, Alira Burt, Clayton Bloomfield, Conner Bloomfield, Grace Bloomfield, Maggie Bloomfield, and Caden Bloomfield. Their hearts are filled with beautiful memories of a woman who loved them deeply and taught them to embrace life with joy and kindness. She was preceded in death by her parents, John Smith and Norma Albright, her step-father Larry Albright, and her ex-husband, Harold Jr. We invite all who knew and loved Shelley Martin to continue celebrating her life by sharing their memories and photos on the memorial page. As we remember Shelley, we find comfort in the words of Matthew 5:4, "Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted." Please join us in honoring Shelley's memory by sharing stories of her loving spirit, her joyful laughter, and her adventurous heart. https://gofund.me/ad82ecf1