Joseph Shelby

Shelby, Joseph Joseph Shelby lived a full life of 92 years, leaving behind a loving family with many wonderful memories. He was one of nine children born to Ida and Leopoldo Shelby on March 10, 1923 in Albuquerque. Their original home was located on the 11th street and remained in the family until just recently. He served his country proudly as a Staff Sergeant/Tail Gunner in the Army Air Corp. during WWII. He never hesitated to share stories of his experiences with students. More recently he astonished family members with the memories of that time in his life. Never wanting to leave Albuquerque, he worked for the Railroad and Sandia Labs until his retirement in 1980. Joe and his wife, Marge, were able to travel in their motor home (the Marjo) with many family members and friends. He always made time to make incredible memories with his grandchildren from camping in the backyard to the many memorable trips in the motor home. He is survived by his wife, of 35 years Margaret Shelby; daughters, Janice Sells and husband Lucky, Jo Lynn Colberg and husband Chuck; stepdaughters, Marsha Kennington, Chris Pace, Sandy Stevener and husband Bill, Denise Elliott; stepson, Mike Farner; nine grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; and one great-great grandchild. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Teri Brown and her husband Scott; stepdaughter, Darlene Farner; and son-in-law, Ron Pace. A private burial will be at the National Cemetery in Santa Fe on Friday, June 26, 2015. Memorial Service will be held Saturday, June 27, 2015 at 11:30 a.m. at Grace Church, 6901 San Antonio NE. In lieu of flowers, please send a donation to the Wounded Warriors at woundedwarriorsproject.org.