It is with broken hearts that the family of Shelby Moran-Sandford announces her sudden passing at the tender age of 29 on January 18, 2025, following a tragic car accident. Shelby’s departure has left a profound void in the lives of her cherished family, friends, and all who knew her. Her loss will be felt deeply, as she was a light in the lives of those who loved her.
Shelby’s family circle, built on love, connection, and shared memories, mourns her untimely passing. She was the beloved daughter of Velvette and Jim Sandford, who provided her with a foundation of warmth, guidance, and unwavering support. From an early age, Shelby demonstrated a compassionate, curious spirit, and her family’s love helped shape the remarkable woman she became.
Shelby was recently married to the love of her life, Ben, on August 8, 2024. Together, with their cherished dog Willie, they formed a small but inseparable family, and Shelby was looking forward to building a future with Ben—creating memories, making a home, and sharing a life filled with love and laughter. Now, that bond is forever altered, leaving Ben heartbroken and mourning the future they had hoped to build together. Their love was a beautiful testament to the deep connection they shared.
Shelby’s siblings, Jay (Stacy) and Cole (Kristin), were not only her brothers but also her protectors, guides, and companions. The three of them shared countless moments over the years, forging a strong bond that Shelby valued deeply. Her passing leaves a profound ache in their hearts, as they remember the laughter, love, and memories they created together. Shelby was predeceased by her oldest brother, Jimmy, who passed away in 2005. In the spirit of family, we trust that Jimmy will be there to greet Shelby on the other side, offering her comfort and guidance as she embarks on her next journey.
Shelby’s extended family, including her in-laws, Karen and John Moran, adored her as a daughter-in-law, and she shared a special bond with her sister-in-law Libby (Jimmy), Aaron (Emily), Kasey (Max), Adam (Zach), Kelly (Tonya), and Jami (Adrian). Her connections with the extended Moran family were built on mutual respect, love, and shared moments, and they will carry her memory in their hearts forever.
Shelby’s cherished memories will also live on in the hearts of her grandparents, including her beloved grandmother, Beth Conway, who will always remember Shelby with love and gratitude. Her memory is also carried by her aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins, whose lives were touched by Shelby’s kind, thoughtful spirit.
Shelby was raised on her family’s hobby farm in Iona Station, a place where she developed a profound love for nature. Her childhood was shaped by the land, where she felt most at home. Whether in the woods or in the fields, Shelby thrived in the serenity of nature, finding solace and peace in the quiet moments spent amongst the trees. It was not uncommon for Shelby to find four-leaf clovers and share them with those around her, offering a tangible reminder of hope and love. Her connection to the land was deep, and it was through these simple acts that Shelby shared her most heartfelt emotions with others.
Her mother, Velvette, was not only her mother but also her closest companion and confidante. They shared an extraordinary bond, one of deep love and trust. Velvette’s nurturing presence was a constant in Shelby’s life, and together they created beautiful memories at the family cottage in Northern Ontario—a place where Shelby’s love for nature and the tranquility of the woods flourished. Her father, Jim, was a role model who instilled in Shelby a sense of strength, resilience, and purpose. The lessons Jim taught her shaped Shelby into the remarkable woman she was.
Shelby’s intellectual curiosity was vast, as was her heart. From a young age, she exhibited a passion for learning that never wavered. She sought to understand the complexities of the human experience, particularly the nature of consciousness, connection, and the meaning of life. Shelby’s academic journey was one of deep exploration, and she graduated from Western University in 2017, followed by a degree from King’s College at Western in 2019. Shelby’s studies combined Philosophy, Psychology, and Thanatology, reflecting her desire to understand the complexities of the human mind and spirit.
Her studies were not simply academic pursuits; they were a manifestation of her deeply held belief that understanding life’s most profound questions could lead to greater empathy, connection, and healing for those around her. Shelby’s compassionate and thoughtful nature made her a beloved friend and confidante to many, and her wisdom, grounded in both her education and her experiences, will continue to inspire those whose lives she touched.
Though Shelby’s life was tragically cut short, her legacy of love, curiosity, and connection will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. Shelby’s family and friends are left with the memories of a young woman who had so much more to give—so much more to explore, learn, and share. Her passing leaves a deep void, but her spirit will continue to shine in the lives she touched.
Shelby will be deeply missed, but her legacy will live on in the hearts of Ben, her family, and her friends. The lessons she imparted, the love she gave, and the kindness she shared will continue to resonate in the lives of all who were fortunate to know her.
A visitation will be held in her honor, and details will be shared by her family. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Shelby’s memory to a charity dedicated to mental health or nature conservation—two causes that were dear to her heart. Online condolences and donations may be made via the family’s website.
Shelby, your light will never fade. Rest in peace, beautiful soul. You are loved, and you will be forever missed.
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