Gene Schelly, 98, of Greeley, Colorado, passed away peacefully on January 15, 2026. She was born at home near Wray, Colorado, on September 11, 1927, and raised on the family homestead alongside her brothers and sisters. From a young age, she naturally took on the role of caregiver to her younger siblings—a calling that would define her life. This nurturing spirit led her to a career in nursing and later to motherhood, roles she embraced with love and dedication.
Gene and Tom Schelly were neighbors, as they grew up in the sandhills north of Wray. Gene reconnected with Tom at a country dance at Wauneta Hall when he returned from military service. One year after this special dance, they married on May 21, 1948. Gene and Tom shared a beautiful life rooted in devotion, laughter, and partnership until Tom’s passing on March 7, 2017.
Gene’s life was built on Faith, Family, and Friends. She was put through nursing school by the U.S. Army and found great fulfillment in caring for others. She especially cherished working in pediatrics and for Head Start. A natural leader, Gene was involved with many organizations and devoted herself to supporting families of children with physical and developmental disabilities. She was active in her church and pioneered the Eucharistic Ministry through St. Mary Catholic Church in Greeley, a ministry that continues to thrive.
She loved fishing, camping, and anything that brought her outdoors. Also, she was always up for a game of bridge, cribbage, or any type of cards. Above all, Gene loved to laugh and truly enjoyed life, bringing warmth and joy to those around her.
Gene was preceded in death by her parents, Peter and Precious (Woodward) Brophy; her husband, Tom Schelly; her daughter, Patty Schelly; and her granddaughter, Mariah (Besecker) Green.
She is survived by her sons, Don Schelly (Cathy)and Alan Schelly; her daughters, Dottie Bruch (Tom) and Gloria Besecker (Rick); numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and two surviving siblings and extended family who will cherish her memory.
Gene’s legacy of compassion, service, and love will live on in all who were blessed to know her.
Recitation of the Rosary will be on Friday, January 30, 2026 at 10:30 a.m., followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m., both at St. Mary Catholic Church, 2222 23rd Avenue in Greeley, CO. Gene will be laid to rest with Tom at Sunset Memorial Gardens.
The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Pathways Hospice, The American Cancer Society, or Heifer International, in care of Stoddard Funeral Home, 3205 W. 28th Street, Greeley, CO 80634.
