Mrs. Marie E. Shelsy

Mrs. Marie E. Hurley Shelsy, of Pittsfield, passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 17, 2026, just a month after celebrating her 86th birthday. Born in Pittsfield, MA on April 15, 1940, daughter of the late William and Alice Feeney Hurley, she graduated from Lenox High School with the class of 1957. After graduating from St. Luke’s Hospital School of Nursing in 1960, Marie worked as a registered nurse. She was most recently employed by Family Practice, from where she retired at age 75. Marie was a self-taught artist who took watercolor lessons well into her 80s. Her artistic style transformed her home for the holidays, and every card and gift she gave was wrapped like a piece of art, featuring her own playful doodles. She loved to go tag sale hopping with her late friend Micky Malatesta and was always on the hunt for a bargain. She was a lucky lady who loved the thrill of the casino and scratch-off tickets, even winning big a few times! Marie knew how to tell a good story in vivid detail and prided herself on making connections with strangers and friends alike. She was known to be impeccably dressed in bright colors with matching jewelry and perfectly done makeup. In honor of her love of bright colors, her family welcomes you to refrain from dark colors and wear your favorite colorful clothes to her services. Marie was predeceased by her beloved husband of 58 years, William P. Shelsy, whom she married on August 12, 1961. Bill passed away on August 20, 2019. Marie is survived by her longtime companion, Earl Albert, who held a special place in her heart. She also leaves behind her brothers Gerard (Christine) and William Hurley (Shannon), children Christine Pratte (Ric), Terri Clark, Tracie Shelsy and Eric Shelsy (Jennifer), her nine grandchildren Carly Jones (Matt), Courtney Hayes (John), McKensie Carlson (Joshua), Laine Chiaretta (Katie Tierney), Catherine Petraccione (Vincent), Paige Bliss (Tom), Jackson, Katherine and Jacob Shelsy, and five great grandchildren, with two more on the way – all of whom she adored. Marie's children wish to extend their deepest gratitude to their sister, Tracie, whose devoted care for Mom meant the world and is immensely appreciated. Funeral Notice: Funeral services for Marie will be Wednesday, May 27, 2026, with a Liturgy of Christian Burial at 10am at St. Agnes Church, celebrated by the Very Rev. Christopher Malatesta, Vicar General/Moderator of the Curia. Burial will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery. Calling hours will be Tuesday, May 26, 2026, from 4pm to 6pm at the Dwyer Funeral Home, 776 North Street, Pittsfield MA 01201. In lieu of flowers, please make donations in Marie’s memory directly to the Michael J. Fox Foundation in support of Parkinson’s research.

Mrs. Marie E. Shelsy

April 15, 1940 - May 17, 2026