Shelley A Boardman

Shelley Ann Boardman (née Mitchell), affectionately called “SAM” (her initials) by her loving husband of 33 years, passed away just before sunrise Tuesday, March 24th, 2020 at the age of 64.  As a 1974 graduate of Blacksburg High School and Blacksburg resident of 46 years, Shelley and Greg departed Virginia upon his retirement to build their dream home on Lake Wateree outside Columbia, SC.  Retired and homeless for months on end due to “not so unpredictable” construction delays, Shelley and Greg made it a point to visit (squat) with family and friends throughout the United States, kissing and spoiling grandkids and granddogs along the way.  Just as in Blacksburg, during their travels and relocation Shelley was quick to make friends and keep them, taking a true interest in others and their well-being.  Dinner groups, girls’ trips, book clubs, and no reason at all was always a good reason to spend time with those friends.  An avid socializer, Shelley even tried on the Country Club lifestyle at the local Golf Club, playing one round of golf before hanging up her cleats and hitting the pool. 

When not with family or friends, you would find Shelley with a beloved dog by her side and a good book, a good glass of wine, or sharp needles nearby.  A knitting enthusiast, she tackled complex patterns and gifts, ensuring no one she loved went without Hokie colored socks, gloves, hats, or scarfs.  A diehard Beatles fan, she professed her fanaticism regularly by singing along loudly to those oldies even though she did not always know the words.  Penny Lane, however, was in her ears and in her eyes, and she knew it by heart.

She was a bright spirit, loving wife, caring mother and grandmother, and a true friend to all.  She was known for her unique laugh and her famous apple pie.  Appreciating the simple things in life, she seriously believed one should not take life too seriously. Shelley was a role model for having fun, courage, strength, and perseverance.

She is survived by her husband Gregory Boardman, and their dog, Penny Lane; two daughters, Lacey and husband, Shilo Romantini, of Blacksburg, VA, Courtney and husband, Anthony Muscatello, of Golden, CO; three stepdaughters, Heather and husband, Mark Kaifer, of Perry Hall, MD, Kristina and husband, Jeff Livasy, of Mt. Pleasant, SC, Jessica and husband, Ryan Schmidt, of Apex, NC; ten grandchildren, Ava McNabb, Julian Romantini, Drew and Lilly Kaifer, Grayson and Luke Livasy, Evelyn, Cole, and Reid Schmidt, and baby Muscatello due in August; four siblings, Diana Anstett, Dorie Hockstra, Leslie Dunham, and Doug Mitchell; and many beloved cousins, nephews, nieces, and friends. Shelley was preceded in death by her parents Don and Betty Mitchell.

An intimate gathering will be held to celebrate Shelley’s life at a later time. If you would like to send condolences or post a tribute to Shelley, we invite you to do so at https://www.jpholley.com/obituary/Shelley-Boardman.  In lieu of flowers, please donate to the American Cancer Society or cancer society of your choice in Shelley’s honor. http://www.cancer.org/

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