Shirley M. Zellers

Shirley M. Zellers, age 63, beloved wife, mother, and grandmother, passed away at home on Thursday, March 15, 2012 surrounded by her family after a courageous battle with cancer. She is now with her Heavenly Father, "Jesus Christ."

She had an accomplished 30 year nursing career, known for her care and compassion. Shirley received her B.S. degree in Nursing at MCV in Richmond, VA. She worked in the ICU, ER, and Oncology at MCV, UVa., and Martha Jefferson Hospital in Charlottesville, VA; then at the VA Medical Center here in Hampton. She lovingly took care of veterans from our Armed Forces for 23 years until her retirement in 1999.

Shirley was best known for her love of family and friends and for her zest for life. She loved the beach, boating, quilting, and spending summers at Nags Head with her children and grandchildren. On her boat she completed the "Great Loop," the "Down East," and boated to the Bahamas twice. She loved quilting with her friends in the Peninsula Peacemakers Quilt Guild. Although retired from nursing, she continued to use her skills to care for others, lovingly providing dedicated care to her father, father-in-law, and mother-in-law in their last days.

She was preceded in death by her grandmother, Consuelo Francisco; her father, COL William C. Malkemes, (USA, Ret.); and brother, Richard Malkemes.

Shirley is survived by her husband, Edwin W. Zellers; mother, Elenita G. Malkemes; her two sons, James T. Gill and wife, Sarah, and Joseph A. Gill; daughter, Jessica G. Letton and husband, Jeremy; step-son, Troy G. Zellers and wife, Rachel; two step-daughters, Amber Z. McCoy and Shannon L. McPherson and husband, Derrell; sister, Marilen Beaman and husband, Rick; two brothers, COL William C. Malkemes (USA, Ret.) and wife, Melinda, and LTC Robert J. Malkemes (USA, Ret.) and wife, MAJ Chris Malkemes (USA, Ret.); plus 12 wonderful grandchildren, ages 20 months to 20 years.

The family would like to thank Dr. Weisman, Dr. Kruger, Dr. Kang and their staff for their comfort and professionalism; and also for the services given by the Heartland Health and Hospice personnel.

A memorial service will be held at Parklawn-Wood Funeral Home on Sunday, March 25, 2012, at 2 PM, followed with hors d'oeuvres for all family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be given to the American Cancer Society, 11835 Canon Boulevard, Suite 102-A, Newport News, VA 23606.

Friends are encouraged to visit www.parklawn-woodfh.com to share memories and words of condolence with the family.

Arrangements are under the care of Parklawn-Wood Funeral Home, 2551 N. Armistead Ave. in Hampton, 23666.