Shelly Marie Boardman

Shelly Boardman, a beloved wife, mother, educator, and musician, passed away suddenly on Tuesday, September 24, 2024. She was born on April 3, 1965, in Nashville, TN as the first child of Joe Ann and Billy Cook. Shelly grew up in Alexandria, Virginia, and attended Thomas Edison High School. Shelly touched the lives of countless individuals through her unwavering dedication to education and her passion for music. Shelly earned her undergraduate and master’s degrees from James Madison University, followed by a Doctorate from the University of Georgia.

As an incredible teacher, she inspired her students to reach their full potential, fostering a love for learning that extended far beyond the classroom. Her musical talents always enriched the lives of those around her. Her impact on the world of music education was profound, serving as a high school and college band director, as well as a music teacher. In addition to her teaching, Shelly played a crucial role in college accreditation programs, working tirelessly to ensure that educational standards were met and enhanced.

Her efforts helped shape the future of education, providing aspiring educators with the tools and support they needed to thrive. Shelly’s dedication to mentoring future leaders in education was evident in her commitment to professional development and always setting the standard for excellence in teaching and learning. Her warmth, kindness, and infectious enthusiasm were some of the many traits that made her a cherished wife, mother, sister, aunt, friend, and colleague to so many.

Shelly is preceded in death by her mother Joe Ann Cook, and survived by her husband Steve, children Billy and Katy Lyn, father Billy Cook, siblings Kathy (Alan) Morgan and Chester (Laura) Cook, brother in law Bill Boardman, and beloved nephews and nieces. A community of family, friends, and students will continue her incredible legacy.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, October 4, at 12 PM in the chapel at Roswell Funeral Home, followed by a reception. The address is 950 Mansell Rd, Roswell, GA 30076. Shelly’s family would love to have anyone who loved her in attendance at her service. Whether that be a former student, a colleague, or anyone who Shelly impacted in some way, they would love to have you. Those unable to attend may tune into the live stream using the following link: https://www.facebook.com/RoswellFuneral

For those who want to make a donation to a cause Shelly supported, here are a couple of options.

The Marching Royal Dukes was a huge part of Shelly’s life. Her undergraduate degree was in Music Education from JMU, where she was heavily involved with the band. She returned to JMU for her graduate degree and worked with the band and even became the coach of the JMU Dukette dance team. She continued to be an active member and supporter of this amazing program.

https://securelb.imodules.com/s/1591/19give/interior.aspx?sid=1591&gid=2&pgid=510&cid=1526&bledit=1&appealcode=73983&dids=295

Bill Posey and Shelly were close friends and worked together at JMU. Bill was the assistant director for the MRDs for 32 years and director of concert and support services for the JMU School of Music for 37 years. He was also the announcer for the Marching Royal Dukes for years.

When he passed away, a scholarship fund was created in his honor. This is the link to the Posey Scholarship Fund:

https://securelb.imodules.com/s/1591/19give/interior.aspx?sid=1591&gid=2&pgid=510&cid=1526&bledit=1&appealcode=73983&dids=4265