Shelly Kiernan

Old Lyme — Shelley Kiernan, 61, passed on Thursday, Jan. 4, 2018, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.

She was born on Sept. 30, 1956, in Chelsea, Mass., the daughter of the late John and Marjorie Kiernan. Shelley’s paternal lineage went back many years in Old Lyme and she felt a strong sense of belonging to Rogers Lake and enjoyed the community feel of the shoreline town.

She was known for being an outstanding baker and was especially well-known for her famous Congo bars. Shelley felt it was important to take time off from work to raise her children. As they got older she went back to her passion of teaching. For over 20 years she was employed with the Colchester Board of Education where she encouraged children of all learning abilities to thrive and grow. The lifelong friendships she made as an educator at Jack Jackter Intermediate School held a special place in her heart. She loved to teach kids about butterflies and their amazing transformation.

She leaves behind to mourn her loss her three children, Justin Taylor of Wethersfield, and his wife, Laura, Meghan Griffin of Westerly, and her husband, Michael and Chelsea Labriola of Westbrook, and her husband, Genaro. She was a loving Oma to her three grandchildren whom she adored, Jaidian Griffin, Stella Taylor and Maverick Griffin. She also leaves behind her sister who cared for her in her final weeks, Denise Lettvin of Hamilton, Mass. and her husband, David; as well as many nieces and nephews.

Shelley maintained many friendships and was always willing to make new friends. She leaves behind her dear friend, Ron McGory of New London, who was like a brother to her; and her best friend of many years, Diane Harriman of Maine.

Friends and relatives are invited to call from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 13, at Fulton-Theroux Funeral Home, 13 Beckwith Lane, Old Lyme. Shelley’s children welcome friends and family to join them and celebrate her life at the Hideaway Restaurant following at 1:30 p.m.

Memorial donations in Shelley’s name may be made to the Special Olympics.