Gilda Shelp, watch designer, jeweler
Gilda “Jill” Shelp, beloved wife, sister, friend, and creative force, entered into eternal peace peacefully Thursday, March 27, 2025, after a courageous and hard-fought battle with cancer. She was born April 15, 1958. She leaves behind her devoted husband of 48 years, Peter D. Shelp, whom she cherished and who was by her side throughout the struggle. Together they became the devoted parents of Amy Rosencrance and Adam Shelp. In addition, she was an aunt and uncle to numerous nieces and nephews. Amy and her husband Carl gave her two grandsons, Coltin and Alex, who were the apples of their “Nonne’s” eye. Equally, she also loved spending time with Adam and his wife April, along with their beloved dog, Brody.
Born to Gloria Castellano, Jill grew up in a close, Italian family in Dunmore, Pa., drawing much support from her mother; older brother, Raymond; and sisters, Annette Runco and Michelle Boniello. Additionally, she deeply cherished the fatherly love of Anthony “Papa” Travato, who would marry her mother, Gloria.
In addition to her primary role as a wife, mother, sister, grandmother, aunt, and mother-in-law, Jill was a consummate professional, spending many years as a designer for Gruen Watch Company and, most recently, a very skilled jeweler. While at Gruen, her professional abilities had her traveling to many different places throughout the world. Her artistic flair and natural mechanical inclination were buoyed by a keen eye for the finished product. Her talent, craftsmanship, and passion were reflected in her work through which she handcrafted many exquisite jewelry pieces that will be worn for years to come.
A gifted watch designer, she poured her heart into every detail of her work, crafting timepieces that were not just functional, but beautiful reflections of her personality and elegance. Her designs graced the wrists of thousands, though few knew the dedication and grit behind them. She navigated the pressures of an often grueling marketing world with grace, resilience, and fierce determination, never letting it dull her spark.
Jill touched the lives of her family and many friends who could count on her for spirited conversation, phenomenal Italian dishes, and her famous jewelry pieces. Jill and Pete relished their time in Delaware, where they enjoyed entertaining family and friends. Jill’s vibrant spirit, larger-than-life heart, boundless creativity, and quick wit will always be her trademark traits that will be remembered fondly. Even in the clutches of a formidable illness, Jill fought a quiet but brave fight, drawing on her family and close friends. While she will be sorely missed, her legacy will live on in the lives of those she touched.
Family and friends may call from 10 to 11 a.m., Saturday, April 12, at Forty Fort United Methodist Church, 26 Yeager Ave., Forty Fort, Pa., with a service following at 11 a.m. with Rev. Richard Bradshaw officiating.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Forty Fort United Methodist Church.
Services in Pennsylvania have been entrusted to Kniffen O’Malley Leffler Funeral & Cremation Services.
Visit Gilda's Life Memorial webpage at parsellfuneralhomes.com.
