Obituary of James I. Shelp

James "Jim" Ira Shelp, 64, of Brackney, PA, passed away peacefully at home on December 23rd, 2022 after a courageous battle with cancer. Jim was a beloved husband, father, son, brother, uncle, cousin, friend and coach. Jim was born in Quantico, VA to Edward and Ellen Shelp on May 23rd 1958. He grew up on the family farm in Brackney, PA. He attended and graduated from Montrose Area School District in 1976. Jim was a member of the U.S. Army from 1979-1982, and then served in the Army Reserves until 2001. Jim went to nursing school at SUNY Broome and earned his degree in 1983. Jim was a nurse at local hospitals and nursing homes, and then worked for NY State for over 30 years. Jim loved animals, especially his horses. He enjoyed being outside and gardening. Jim was active in youth sports and a coach for over 30 years. He loved his "kids" and talked highly of those he coached. Jim coached at Montrose Area for several years before ending his coaching career at Blue Ridge School District. Jim coached cross country and track & field at both districts. He coached Jr. High basketball at Blue Ridge. Jim was also a member of the Silver Lake Volunteer Fire Department. Jim is predeceased by his step mother, Martha Shelp. He is survived by his loving wife Maureen Shelp of 36 years; his children Ryan (Harmony) Shelp, Kati-Ellen (Cameron) Sorochman, Steven Shelp (Morgan McElhaney), and Burgundy Shelp; his parents Edward Shelp, Ellen Shelp and lifetime friend Bob Elliott; his siblings, Edward III (Marguerite) Shelp, Robert Shelp, Thomas (Rosa) Shelp, Kathi Murphy (Bud Blackman), and Karen (Kevin) Ramminger; as well as several nieces, nephews, and cousins. The family wishes to extend their gratitude to Fox Chase Cancer Center in Philadelphia, Lourdes Oncology/Radiation, and nursing staff, especially Justin W. with Lourdes Hospital. A Funeral Mass will be offered at St. Augustine's Church, Church Road, Brackney, PA, Saturday at 10 a.m. Burial will be in the Parish Cemetery in the spring. The family will receive friends at the J.A. McCormack Sons Funeral Home, 141 Main Street, Binghamton, Friday from 5 to 7 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to AstraZeneca Hope Lodge in Philadelphia and True Friends Animal Welfare Center in Montrose, PA.