Geraldine S. Shell

Geraldine Bell Switzer Shell, 70, of Franklin Co., died Thursday, March 4, 2010 at her residence. Born October 28, 1939 in Alleghany County, a daughter of the late Mary Emaline Linkswiler Switzer and William Oliver Switzer. She was a retired nurse and being a master gardener, she loved flowers, nature and the outdoors.

In addition to her parents, Geraldine was preceded in death by two brothers, Thomas M. Switzer and Bill Switzer; and a sister, Darlene Hollie. She is survived by her husband of 27 years, Michael Wayne Shell; two daughters, Gerri Parker and her husband, Kenny of Sydnorsville and Gina Phelps and her husband, Brian of Harrisonburg; five grandchildren, Jacob Bush and his wife, Jennifer of Hampstead, NC, Jimmy Hagy and his wife, Tosha of Sydnorsville, Amanda Maish and her husband, James who is now deployed in Iraq, Logan Phelps and Megan Phelps both of Harrisonburg; five great-grandchildren, Breanna Hodges, Elizabeth Hodges, Sarah Hodges, Dustin Browning and Annabelle Hagy; one brother, Richard W. Switzer and his wife, Beverly of Roanoke; and special pets Dawg and Kitty Mama.

Memorial contributions may be made to Planned Pethood Clinics, 18401 Virgil H. Goode Hwy, Rocky Mount, VA 24151.      

 A graveside service will be conducted at 11:00 AM Saturday, March 6, 2010         in Franklin Memorial Park with Chaplin Rick Poland officiating. Arrangements by Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Smith Mtn. Lake, 721-9375.