Shelly R. Merritts

     Shelly Rose Merritts, 54, previously of Altoona, lost her battle with breast cancer suddenly on Oct. 25, 2021, with loved ones surrounding her. She was born in Antis Township, a daughter of Dale Merritts and Patricia Brooks.

     Shelly was a Bellwood High School graduate, followed by four years active duty in the U.S. Army. She then went on to receive a medical assistant degree and was in management.

     She is survived by a husband, Tom Rhodes, of Columbia Falls, Mont.; three daughters and a son-in-law: John and Brittanie Rice, Tiffany Merritts and Serina Merritts, all of Altoona; and a granddaughter, Jaelynn Barr of Altoona.

     Shelly enjoyed outdoor activities, horror-themed movies and activities, going to metal and rock concerts and spending time with her granddaughter, many pets and friends. It is easy to say if you knew Shelly, that she always had an open door policy and the most giving heart.

     A Celebration of Shelly’s Life will be held from noon to 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 14, 2021, at Myers-Somers Funeral Home Inc., 501 Sixth Ave., Altoona.

     In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations for breast cancer research please be made to Susan G. Komen for the Cure, 13770 Noel Road, Suite 801889, Dallas, TX 75380.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Shelly R. Merritts, please visit our floral store.