Rochelle "Shelly" Messersmith

Shelly was reunited with her heavenly family and gained her wings Sunday, February 7, 2021. Shelly was born September 24, 1962 in Knox, Indiana to Wendell Earl West and Lu Chapman Northrop.

Growing up in a large military family made her a very strong-willed and determined person, there was nothing she couldn’t do if you asked her. Her family moved to Jerome when Shelly was a teen, where she met and married Jack Messersmith on February 25, 1981. They resided and raised their children on the family farm. Everyone who knew her, knew if you drove by she was always outside doing something.

Shelly loved the farm life, from gardening and yard work to raising calves. She was never too proud to put in a good day’s work and she found pride in working. Shelly later went to work for Seneca Foods in Buhl where she continued to work there until they closed their doors. The “forced retirement” was not a good fit for her, but she found herself rebuilding relationships she had lost and creating many new friendships in her final years. Which she treasured dearly.

Shelly was one to always lend a hand, if you needed something or just someone to talk to over coffee, she was there. She continued to have weekly phone calls with so many people, just to check in. She enjoyed the hunting trips, vacations to Yellowstone, and enjoying God’s Country whenever she got the opportunity to get away.

She was also very proud grandma, she loved to watch her grandkids grow up, spoiling them every opportunity she got and encouraging them to follow their dreams. They will treasure their time with her forever. Even though it is hard to let you go and we will miss you every day, we know we will be together again, and you are in the best company while we wait.

Shelly leaves behind her husband of 39 years, Jack Messersmith; their daughter, Jackie (Brandon) Hoyer; and her two grandchildren, Dustin and Lacie; along with her mother, Lu Northrop; and her siblings, LeRoy, Rhonda, Ralph, and Lori. She was preceded in death by their beloved daughter, Jessica Messersmith; her brother, Randy West; her father, Wendell Earl West; and stepfather, Ed Northrop.

As per her desires, there will be no funeral service. The family will have a private ceremony to honor her at a later time.

The family would like to thank Auburn Crest for their support and guidance these last few months. Please feel free to send cards but we ask that flowers & gifts not be sent, Shelly was the green thumb of the household.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family on Shelly’s memorial webpage at www.farnsworthmortuary.com.