Shelly Rae Kerkhoff, age 53, passed away on April 5, 2024, with her mother and father by her side at Cooley Dickinson Hospital. Shelly was born in Schenectady, NY on June 16, 1970, to Kathleen (Binnall) and Daniel Kerkhoff. Shelly will be deeply missed by her siblings, Nikki Moriarty, Scott Kerkhoff, and Eric Kerkhoff. Also, her beloved aunt Cindy Binnall and nephew’s Ryan, Mathew, Aiden, and Ethan and niece Emily. Shelly also leaves many aunts, uncles, and cousins. She had a large extended family and a special neighbor along with countless caretakers at Sunshine Village and the Team at Hillside Meadows. Although Shelly had limited abilities, she had a smile that could illuminate the darkest room. Shelly enjoyed rocking to music and spending time with her family at home and at Cape Cod. As a family, we are comforted in our loss knowing that others have been given a second chance thanks to Shelly’s precious gift by donating her organs and tissues. Finally, a special thanks to the staff at Cooley Dickinson Hospital for the amazing care they gave Shelly in her final days. A period of visitation will be held on Friday April 12th from 10 – 11:30 a.m. at the Messier Funeral Home, 1944 Northampton St., Holyoke with an 11:30 a.m. service in the funeral home. Burial will be private and at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers please make a donation to Sunshine Village, 75 Litwin Lane, Chicopee, MA 01020. For online condolences please visit
www.messierfuneralhome.com