Shelley Virginia Masterson

This is not your typical obituary. Shelley was not a typical woman of her generation. Shelton Virginia Masterson “Shelley” was born November 6, 1936 in Newton, MA. She enjoyed an early childhood as the first born to her parents and doting grandparents. She talk to fun times, especially with granddaddy and Muncie. Granddaddy took Shelley to the Boston Marathon each year and bought her ice cream which he was forbidden to do as “it would spoil her appetite“ Shelley develop the love of both running, and ice cream.

At Union College in Louisville Kentucky Shelley met her first husband, David Otto. They had four children; Timberly of Tustin, California, Allan and Barry, both of Princeton, Maine, and Shelley (JR) of Georgetown, Texas. Shelley and family lived many years in Hudson, MA. During this time, Shelley went to Framingham State College and finished her bachelors and masters degree in education. Shelley met valuable friends who encouraged her to start running at the age of 40. Shelley couldn’t run once around the track but she set goals and accomplish them, ultimately running multiple marathons. Shelley competed in and won many races for her age group. During this time, Shelley developed a strong, self-esteem and confidence. At age 56 she left a long term, unhealthy marriage and Hudson. She moved to Cape Cod where she lived the rest of her life.

Shelley joined Cape Cod Athletic Club (CCAC) and met many lifelong friends. She was happy. Through CCAC, Shelley met Paul Masterson. They were married in June, 2001.

Shelley and Paul built a life of love, fun, adventure, and family. Paul made Shelley‘s family his own. Many happy memories were made, in a Harwich in the house that Papa built. All of their children and grandchildren brought her much love and joy, as did her extensive extended family of nieces nephews and siblings, and cherished friends. Shelley would put a smiley face in her calendar anytime a family member came to visit and a frowning face when they left. During this time, Shelley cultivated her love of ice cream. She found the best ice cream spots on Cape Cod and in her travels. She hosted many ice cream parties and always had everyone’s favorite flavor available. She tested and found a fudge sauce recipe which she became famous for.

Sadness descended when Paul died in 2020. Shelley and running friend, Bill Robbins, supported one another through difficult times. From there, a special friendship and companionship developed and lasted until Shelley‘s death.

Shelley taught us many things. Because I, JR, am writing this obituary I’ll tell you, she taught me strength, resiliency, unconditional love, acceptance, and forgiveness. She also taught me the love of running, and ice cream.

Please join family in a memorial service on July 12 at 2 PM at the Orleans United Methodist Church at 73 Main St. in Orleans, MA. There will be a celebration afterward in the fellowship hall of the church. We will have ice cream with mom’s hot fudge sauce for all to enjoy.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of Shelley to the Jimmy Fund at www.danafarber.jimmyfund.org or to the Orleans United Methodist Church PO Box 1565, Orleans MA 02645.