Jesse W. Shelford
</element><element id="paragraph-1" type="body"><![CDATA[When Abraham Lincoln said, "Whatever you are, be a good one," he had Jesse Shelford in mind. A husband, son, father, brother, uncle, friend, or other lifetime roles, he was most definitely a "good one."
Jesse W. Shelford, 95, of Harrisburg, passed away in his home, Tuesday, March 22, 2011. He was surrounded by his loving family and caregiver, April Fowler.
He was predeceased by his parents, Thomas and Nancy Shelford; wife, Winifred (Koch) Shelford; three brothers, Guy Shelford and John and Joe Hanks; and a sister, Helen Beam.
He is survived by his daughter, Sammi (Loretta) Shelford Mariano; two grandsons, Nicholas and Robert Mariano; and numerous nieces and nephews. Jesse will be sadly missed by Joe Flangel and many other family members and close friends.
In 1945, Jesse received an honorable discharge as a first class petty officer from the U.S. Navy. He was proud to be among the first servicemen to work in the offices at Navy Pier, Chicago.
Jesse loved horse racing and owned several horses. His real passion was his family. He gave boundless love and wise advice; his compassion and generosity was lavished on family and all those who knew him.
Jesse "Toby" grew up in Harrisburg and graduated from Harrisburg Township High School.
Jesse was an active member at the First Baptist Church for more than 85 years. He maintained his support and membership until his death. He served for many years as treasurer.
He began work at Sahara Coal Company in 1965 and retired in 1985 as office manager and chief accountant. He then became co-trustee and was in charge of Sahara Progressive Mine Workers Union.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 26, 2011, at Reed Funeral Chapel in Harrisburg. The Rev. Chris Winkleman will officiate; burial will follow in Sunset Lawn Cemetery. Military graveside rites will be conducted by the Harrisburg American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars and National Guard. Visitation will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, March 25, 2011, at Reed Funeral Chapel. Memorials may be made to the First Baptist Church of Harrisburg. Condolences may be sent to the family through the Obituary Page at the Internet site www.reedfuneralchapel.com.