Shelly Lynn Henderson-Cuthbertson, known affectionately as “Shell”, passed away on October 10, 2024, in Menifee, California at the age of 45. Born on October 3, 1979, in Pottstown, PA, Shelly was a respected and beloved member of her community.
Shelly was a woman of many accomplishments and passions. She began her studies in Criminal Justice at Central Texas University and received a Bachelor’s Degree from Park University (Criminal Justice) and a Master’s Degree from Walden University (Forensic Psychology). She was a proud member of Walden University-Chapter of The National Society of Leadership and Success, “Sigma Alpha Pi”. Her educational journey began at Franklin Elementary, where her military uniform from 9/11 is retired, and continued through Pottstown Senior High School.
Her service in the Marine Corps as a Corporal from 1997 to 2007 was a significant period in her life, that reflected her dedication and resilience. Shelly was a survivor of the 09/11 attacks on the Pentagon; she was recognized for her heroic actions that selflessly saved the lives of others during the national tragedy.
Shelly married the love of her life, Andre L. Cuthbertson on June 1, 2002 in Phoenixville, PA.
Shelly’s career was marked by her commitment to justice and advocacy, often helping others understand their rights and protecting the vulnerable. She was known for her charisma, creativity, and her ability to think outside the box. Her optimism and quick problem-solving abilities were hallmarks of her personality. She excelled in her service as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA), Volunteer Mediator for the Dispute Resolution Center Mediation Program and other advocacy roles. She was a recipient of many professional designations and accolades inclusive of an US House of Representatives’ certificate of Congressional recognition, California Legislature Assembly certificate recognizing her impact as a Mediator. Riverside County’s Dispute Resolution Center Mediation Program. Shelly’s impact was experienced on the east and west coasts of the United States, internationally in Japan, Germany and the African continent through her services with Africom. Shelly’s legacy of service for others has and will continue to have immeasurable generational impacts on the socio- emotional wellbeing of all who were recipients of her interaction.
Aside from her professional and military achievements, Shelly was deeply involved in various interests. She enjoyed swimming, swimming with dolphins, snorkeling, international travel, reading, international cuisine, and was an avid motorcycle rider. Her participation in online ministry was an important aspect of her spiritual life.
Shelly is survived by her husband, Andre L. Cuthbertson of Menifee, CA; her sister, Monique Henderson of Phoenixville, PA; nephews Jarris T. Rucker-Henderson of Exeter, PA, and Johnathan A. Pollard of Phoenixville, PA; niece Tatyana D. Rucker-Henderson of Exeter, PA. She also leaves behind a father and mother-in law: John H. Cuthbertson, Sr. (Marie) of Williston, SC; brothers-in-law John H. Cuthbertson, Jr (Ferlecia) of Williston, SC and Troy J. Cuthbertson (LaTasha) of Aiken, SC, along with a host of nieces and nephews. A godson: Marcus Martin (Minnesota). She was preceded in death by her parents, Cecil A. Henderson and Barbara D. Henderson (Townsend), her sister Nichole D. Henderson, and her grandmother Mary V. Jackson.
Shelly’s life and legacy will be remembered fondly by all who knew her, as a woman who lived life to the fullest, with a spirit as vast as the oceans she loved to explore.
