Shelly, Henry N. (1832-1920)

Mennonite Year Book and Almanac obituary: 1921 p. 26

Birth date: 1832 Apr 25

Text of obituary:

HENRY N. SHELLY

Henry N. Shelly was the son of Daniel B., and Sarah Newcomer Shelly, born in Richland township, Bucks county, Pa., April 25, 1832. At the age of 18 years he was admitted as a member of the East Swamp Mennonite church, being baptized and admitted by the Rev. John H. Oberholtzer. He was deeply interested and concerned about the affairs of his church.

In 1870 he moved with his family to Vera Cruz, Lehigh county, Pa., and in the same year united with the Upper Milford Mennonite church. It was here that he served most of his activities in church work. Serving as trustee for six years.

On January 7, 1889, he was elected deacon of the congregation and strived in that capacity for the material and spiritual welfare of the church, serving until January 8, 1899. He was also teacher of the German Bible Class in the Sunday-school for many years.

Engaged in the saw mill business, through his integrity and fair business principles, he won many friends. He was esteemed and respected by all who knew him. These same characteristics he applied to church work which likewise won him many admirers in his home church and in the Eastern District Conference.

On November 3, 1860, he was united in marriage to Susan Zetty. This union was blessed with four children, one dying in infancy. His wife preceded him in death on August 13, 1911. After that he lived a retired life. He was in good health and had a well preserved mind, being often sought for advice and historical information of the church.

He is survived by three children, one son and two daughters.

After a lingering illness of about three months he died peacefully on March 28, 1920, at the ripe old age of 87 years, 11 months and 3 days.