Obituary of Shelley Betts Hebert

Shelley Roberta (Betts) Hebert, 73, passed away peacefully at Ellis Hospital on January 22, 2021. By her side was her loving husband of over fifty years and her youngest daughter. Shelley was the daughter of Emma Elizabeth (Spader) and Joseph Oliver Betts, born on May 31, 1947. She grew up in New London, CT, going to the beach in summer and stopping by Sheffield Tube Co., to eat lunch with her dad in his office. She graduated New London High School in 1965 and Russell Sage College in 1969, earning a B.A. in English. Her thesis on the novel Tristram Shandy hints at her life-long love of literature, and her appreciation for both the refined and bawdy. As an adult, reading groups were welcome invitations to eagerly dive into new research projects. In college, Shelley met William Hebert and they married October 17, 1970, at Lutheran Church of Our Redeemer in New London, CT. Together, they raised four children in Schenectady and Niskayuna. As a mom, Shelley cheered from the sidelines of hockey and basketball games, swim meets, and Odyssey of the Mind competitions. She played piano and guitar and encouraged her kids to make music. She was an accomplished cook but left burned pot holders in her wake. Shelley was generous with her time and talents, always hosting holiday dinners and family celebrations, volunteering at Grace and Zion Lutheran churches, Craig and Howe elementary schools, caring for her mother and mother-in-law, and grabbing lunch with friends. Shelley is survived by her husband William; their four children Joseph Hebert (Susanna), Kathryn Hebert-Messal (Philippe), Emma Barrell (Gary), Paul Hebert (Catherine); and their three grandchildren William, Adrien, and Dean. A graveside service will be held on Saturday July 24, 2021 at 10:30 AM at Historic Vale Cemetery, Brandywine Avenue entrance for family and friends. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Schenectady Inner City Ministry (SICM) or Ms. Foundation for Women. Alternatively, you can remember Shelley by walking along a beach, treating yourself to a chocolate truffle, or playing a game of Dr. Mario. Arrangements are entrusted to Jones Funeral Home, 1503 Union Street, Schenectady, NY. To leave a condolence for the family, please visit www.jonesfh.net.