Shirley Shelton Obituary

Shirley Ann Herrity Shelton lived a life filled with adventure, laughter, and boundless love. On February 26, 2025, surrounded by the warmth of home, she peacefully embarked on her final journey-one that surely includes breathtaking landscapes, the salty breeze of the ocean, and a chorus of Irish melodies.
Born and raised in Northwest Washington, D.C., Shirley was the daughter of Francis J. and Alice Hindman Herrity, who nurtured her adventurous spirit from an early age. Sunday drives with her father were filled with song, and family road trips always ended with treasured rocks that found a home in the family garden. That love for exploration only grew stronger-whether she was roaming the streets of Europe with her mother and sisters, traveling across the country in her camper with children and grandchildren, or diving into the ocean's depths, Shirley embraced every journey with open arms.
Shirley was fiercely proud of her Irish heritage, and she made sure her family carried that pride forward. Gatherings were never complete without a spirited rendition of the Irish tune Harrigan, joyfully modified to honor the family name Herrity, always performed with laughter, a little dance, and a whole lot of love. That cherished tradition will continue to live on through her children and grandchildren, keeping her spirit forever present.
A devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Shirley's greatest adventure was the love she poured into her family. She is survived by her children, Sharon Swenson, Diane Shelton, Terry Thir, and Jay (James) Shelton Jr., as well as 10 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great-grandchildren. She was also adored by many nieces and nephews. She now joins those who passed before her-her parents, her sisters Jean Cavaness and Evalyn Phelps, and her beloved sons Robert F. (Bobby) Shelton and Steven T. (Tracy) Shelton-in a place where love and music never fade.
Shirley's impact extended beyond her family. She was a passionate supporter of her children's sports and activities, a dedicated Girl Scout leader, a Red Cross swimming instructor, a successful business owner, and a lifelong Washington Redskins fan. Neighborhood kids will always remember piling into her station wagon, chasing fire trucks, and feeling like part of her extended family.
Her life was a testament to the joy of the journey-to embracing every road trip, every song, every wave, and every laugh along the way. As we celebrate Shirley's remarkable life, we honor the legacy she leaves behind: one of adventure, resilience, and deep, abiding love.
May the road rise up to meet you, Shirley, and may the wind always be at your back.
Sláinte!
Visitation will be on Wednesday, March 12, 2025 from 10:00AM until time of Service at 11:00AM, at the First Baptist Church of La Plata, 9070 Hawthorne Road, La Plata, MD 20646. Interment will follow at Mt. Rest Cemetery, La Plata, MD.