I never knew Shelby nor ever spoke with her. I think the most was a gentle smile. I ran track for Long Beach State and I specifically remember being right next to her on the inside lane in the Big West 100 finals two years ago. I remember watching her compete and competing against her last year at Big West. I remember thinking to myself how amazingly beautiful and talented she is. Before a meet I always prayed for the health and success of myself as well as my competitors; I know my prayers were fulfilled as she competed and continued to show grace and humility bringing honor to His name. I wish I said hi or good job after we would race against each other.  I pray for your family and that the Lord covers you all with strength and guides you all, holding you in His righteous hands. May God bless you all and I know Shelby is with Him saved from the troubles of this world ❤️

Shelby was one of a kind, a beacon of hope, exceptionally kind, incredibly witty, a loving soul and an amazing student-athlete. She thrived in everything she did, and she gave everything her all. She cared so deeply for others and always made sure to make everyone feel like they were the center of the universe. I met Shelby at Cal Poly through track two years ago, and the impact she had on me can’t be put into words. As someone you had the chance to document her incredible achievements on and off the track, I got to witness the influence she had on others every single day. So many looked up to her and so many loved her. I will always cherish the conversations we had together, especially the ones we had on the way to Stanford in her final season. Shelby will never be forgotten and her life and legacy will live on forever. My heart hurts, but I know Shelby would be strong, so we all have to be for her. My condolences go out to her family, friends and loved ones. Thank you all for sharing her with us. We love you Shelby.

To my friend Shelby and family, 

During my short time at Cal Poly, I was blessed with the gift to meet and spend time with the sweet and kind person that you are. I remember when I got to meet you for the first time during my introduction at Cal Poly, I got to see your quirky sense of humor that made me feel less anxious to meet others on the team. You were so friendly and open. During my last months at Cal Poly, I remember talking to the team about my experience there. You brought up the fact that despite my time being there was short, it felt like I was there forever. I bring that up because that made me realize that since the day I got there, you accepted me as your teammate. You never hesitated to make someone feel included and I will forever cherish that.

To her family, I will always be honored and proud to have competed alongside Shelby. Through her hard work and dedication, she was able to achieve all that she did. One core memory I have that will always be with me was being able to go to the top of the Space Needle in Seattle. We were there for a track meet, and it was my very first time being in Washington. I was telling my friends that we should walk around and explore the city a little. Next thing I know, I would be fortunate enough to actually go to the top of the Space Needle and view the whole city in its beauty. This would not have been possible if it weren't for Shelby and her family. Something that may have seemed like an ordinary day for most, turned into an experience that I will never forget. For that I am forever grateful.

I wish to have had more time being able to know Shelby. In my eyes, she will always be the record breaking 2024 Big West Champion, the loving soulmate of my dear friend Joey, and my friend. As devastated as I am about her loss, I know that her legacy will live on within countless people on the team. She will forever be a part of all of us. 

You will be missed deeply, Shelby. 

From the bottom of my heart,
Christopher Davis

Shelby was a teammate, an inspiration, and a WONDERFUL friend to me. Some of my favorite memories with her consisted of braiding her hair for track meets in high school because we got to just talk for hours. She was so kind, fun, and hilarious. I admired her so much. I remember that this photo was taken at one of our college track meets, and it was the day she pointed out her boyfriend in the stands to me. She was so cute, excited, and in so much love. I am so grateful for every minute I got to spend with Shelby, and I will cherish each memory forever. I love you, Shelby.

This was my last meet with Shelby, it was always an honor to witness her dedication to her craft. I will never forget the countless laughs we had wherever we went. She was so much more than just a friend, she was like family to me. The bond we had through being teammates is truly unbreakable. I wish everyday for more time with her but I’m so grateful that every time I wanted to say something heartfelt , I didn’t shy away from letting her know how I felt. I am so lucky to have been part of her journey and I know her bright light lives on through all of us who love her.

Dear Lori and family

Shelby was such a beautiful person inside and out. The memories we share of playing in the pool, jumping on the trampoline and all those unforgettable lake trips will forever stay with us. Her warmth and spirit will be deeply missed in all of our hearts. 

With all our love, Cheryl, Kellie and Maggie

Knowing you through these years and watching God mold you into the powerful force that you has truly been a blessing in my life. You are full of joy, ambition, creativity, fellowship, and optimism. I always enjoyed our conversations about life, faith, and hearing about all the great mountains that you were climbing in life. I take so much peace in the fact of knowing that I will see you again running and smiling that great smile in Heaven. Your legacy here on Earth is solidified and we will continue to share the love you did.

I send my love, His calm, and condolences to the Daniele family, Joey, and all of her loved ones.

Until I see you again, Shelb.

Love you, lil sis.

1 Peter 5:7

Central Valley superstar! What a model for young women! Praying for the family! God has picked her for a bigger purpose.

I had the privilege of being Shelby’s teammate and friend through high school, and then roommate for 2 years at Cal Poly.  One of the many things I will always cherish from those times is how much we laughed together. She was always her true self and could bring a smile to anyone’s face. I miss you, Shelby, and I know you’re still smiling brightly and dancing in heaven🪽💛🌻

I’m so sorry for your loss, I’m from Atwater California but now I live in Buckeye Arizona I’m sorry to hear that Shelby is not here anymore

beautiful angel. so blessed to have known you and spent so much time with you. our memories will forever have such a special place in my heart and a piece of it will forever be missing now. i am so beyond grateful for the time we spent together and how close we were. love you forever my girl, until we meet again🤍🪽🌻💛

Everytime I think of Shelbz, I think of butterflies and sunflowers. Butterflies are free-spirited yet determined and fly gracefully, beautifully, effortless. Sunflowers were not only one of her favorite flowers, but capture rays of sunshine, are bright in fields of green grass, and continue to shine through the cloudy days. I am so glad she gets to watch us from above, is safe, and can cheer us  on with that radiant smile of hers. 🌻🦋

I was on the 2019 relay team with Shelby, and she was always my teacher. Still is even 8 years after I met her. My goal is to be more like her: care less about the small stuff, dig deeper for what you believe in, and compete harder for what you know you can be amazing in. That’s what she told me when I saw her in May at Regionals and it’s what I will compete by and live by for the rest of my life. The last thing she said to me before we trained at that random track in Arkansas was, “I can’t wait to see all the big things you accomplish in the next few years, Lo”  I’m bringing you along with me for the ride. I love you Shelby, and thank you for teaching me how to be a fierce competitor. I’m doing this for you.❤️🦋🌻

Our thoughts & prayers are with everyone who loves Shelby💗🙏  This is the day after their CalPoly graduation. The  ‘kids’ invited us to have breakfast with them in Paso Robles on our way home to Roseville. John even got to meet Wylow.  Joey is our grandson & Shelby the love of his life💞 Love you both to the moon & back💖

No words are adequate. Just in the short time I spend with Shelby filming a video in August I was struck by her vibrant spirit, intelligence, and kindness. I am praying for your precious family.

- Ashley Goldsmith

This was taken during one of my last track meets ever. Shelby went on to do big things the next few years after (breaking records at CalPoly!!) but what this picture means to me is the bond we created during our time as teammates in high school. Shelby had this gift of making you feel seen, loved, and supported no matter how much time passed between talking.

Joey, we never met her, but wow, every picture posted, we felt we knew her…with her smile, and we could see the love for you in her eyes. We are mourning with you, Joey, too.

Sending condolences to everyone who knew her and who loved her, the Souto family, and Daniele family.

Sharing your sadness as you keep the memories of her.

Love, Uncle John and Aunt Annette

I got the honor to cheer with Shelby. She was beautiful inside and out. No matter how much time went by she always reached out to me! She will truly be missed! I love you Shelby!

I’m grateful for the moments we shared on the track. Your positivity & encouragement meant so much to me! I’ll carry your spirit with me in every race 🪽

Though we were rivals, you were truly a teammate at heart! I’ll always cherish our hugs & words of encouragement. Your spirit will inspire me to keep running 💚

You were a true light on & off the track! Thank you for inspiring me to be my best 🫶🏼🫶🏼

You were more than a competitor; you were a true friend! I’ll continue to run in your honor carrying your encouragement with me always! 🕊️

This was our last time together on the old, blue track before it was redone. We had such a special group of girls that we trained along side with every single day. We witnessed many of each others ups and downs. Shelby was an amazing leader, and helped build such a strong foundation for us to lean on each other when things weren’t going to plan. This was my second family and it hurts so much to lose someone that meant so much to each and every one of us. We will miss you Shelby, until we meet again💛🌻🪽

OBITUARY

Shelby Lauren Daniele

9 January, 2001 – 25 September, 2024

Whitehurst Sullivan Burns & Blair Funeral Home

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