Shirley M. Spicer Kelley, 90, of Bellefonte, passed away at home on Saturday, October 12, 2024, surrounded by her family. Born on February 21, 1934, in Bellefonte, she was the daughter of the late Jerry and Jennifer (Stover) Owens. She was predeceased by her husbands, William Harvey Spicer, Jr. on October 6, 1974, and Richard “Dick” McKivison Kelley on March 31, 2015.
Shirley worked at Cerro Copper and Brass for a while in her younger years, meeting her husband, Richard, there. She later held numerous positions at Penn State University, retiring after 12 years of service.
She is survived by her seven children, William R. Spicer (Erdean) of Bellefonte, Deborah J. Rondini (Evo) of Connecticut, Robin E. Spicer of Linden, Carol E. Spicer of Milesburg, Rick L. Spicer (Suzi) of Port Matilda, Tracy L. Leitzel (Greg) of Millheim, and Joy A. Long (Brian) of Millheim, daughter-in-law, Teresa K. Kelley of Howard, 33 grandchildren, 47 great grandchildren, and two great-great grandchildren. Also surviving is a sister, Jane Miller of Centre Hall, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
In addition to her husbands and parents, she was predeceased by four children, Ethel M. Kramer, Patricia A. Cowen, Cynthia L. Lutz, and Richard A. Kelley, two grandchildren, Jennifer Laing and Brittany Spicer, ten siblings, Joseph, Dean, Paul, Jerry, and Bill Owens, Dorothy Rockey, Cora Emberton, Betty Homan, Elizabeth Runkle, and Nancy Martin.
Shirley attended worship services at the State College Assembly of God and the former Assembly of God Church in Milesburg (currently Freedom Life). Shirley enjoyed singing and playing gospel music on her guitar and organ; reading her bible; knitting special dish cloths for friends and family; competing in bowling leagues with her sister and niece; and performing gospel music for residents of nursing homes along with her brothers and sisters. Above all, she cherished spending time with her family.
A public viewing will be held on Saturday, October 19, 2024, from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM, at Freedom Life, 113 Sunset Acres, Bellefonte. Funeral services will begin at 12:00 PM, at the church, with Pastor Josh Simonetti officiating. Burial services will be held privately at the convenience of the family. Arrangements are under the direction of Wetzler Funeral Service, Inc. in Bellefonte.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in memory of Shirley to Centre Crossings Hospice, 2437 Commercial Blvd., State College, PA 16801.