April 4, 1947–Feb. 7, 2018
Susan Orlene Shell of Upton, Wyo., passed away Feb. 7, 2018, at the age of 70.
She was born April 4, 1947, to Orren and Mary (Rankin) Clyde and was raised in Osage, Wyo., as the oldest of 10 children. She attended elementary school in Osage and high school in Upton, where she graduated as valedictorian in 1965. She went on to college at the University of Wyoming in Laramie and later at Black Hills Teacher’s College in Spearfish, S.D.
Susan had a particularly close relationship with her maternal grandmother, Louella M. Rankin. She lived with Granny Rankin through her teen years and that continued to be “home” through high school and college. She would always recognize Granny’s influence throughout her life.
In 1969, she married Lawrence “Larry” Shell and together they had three children: Eric, Andi, and Devlin. Early in their marriage Susan was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. In her later years, as it took a greater physical toll, Larry was her primary caregiver and was tireless in his devotion to her. Her son, Eric, returned to live in the family home to help support her care. With the help of the compassionate and competent staff at Sharon’s Home Health, Susan was able to remain in her home until her death.
Susan was a lifelong educator. Some of the work that held most meaning for her was as a home-based educator for children who were unable to attend school due to health reasons. She later went on to be the community education coordinator for the area through Eastern Wyoming College. She had a passion for education and encouraged countless people to believe in their own abilities and pursue their dreams. Susan was also a source of wisdom and encouragement to others in her daily life. She taught so many by example as she faced life with courage, dignity, and grace. Susan was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Wayne Clyde; and her sisters, Nancy Taylor and Ginger Hartshorn. She is survived by brothers, Robert “Tuffy” Clyde, James “Jim” Clyde, Vernon Clyde, and Russell Clyde; and sisters Barbara Percifield and Vicki Sutherland. She is also survived by her husband and children, as well as her granddaughters, Nikole and Gracie.
Funeral services were held at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 13, at the Upton Community Center in Upton, with visitation one hour prior to the service. burial took place at Greenwood Cemetery in Upton.
Memorials can be made to the Upton Volunteer Fire Department. Condolences can be sent to PO Box 438, Upton, WY 82730.
Arrangements are under the care of Fidler-Roberts & Isburg Funeral Chapel of Sundance. Online condolences may be written at www.fidler-isburgfuneralchapels.com.