Jerry Shellhaas

Jerald "Jerry" K. Shellhaas, age 64, of Galloway, Ohio passed away unexpectedly on May 11, 2025. Jerry was born on July 9, 1960 to the late Jack and Harriett Shellhaas in Mansfield, Ohio.

Along with his parents, Jerry is preceded in death by his brother-in-law, Greg Pendell and father-in-law, Richard Pendell.

He is lovingly survived by his wife, Gwen Shellhaas, daughter, Eliana Shellhaas, siblings, Janice (Chip) Gross, Jim (Sue) Shellhaas, Jon (Nancy) Shellhaas, mother-in-law, Marjorie Pendell, sisters-in-law, Gail (Dave) Maxey, Geisel (Kevin) Nye, Jane Pendell, brother-in-law, Zack (Julie) Pendell, and many nieces and nephews.

Jerry graduated from Lexington Ohio High School and went on to Toccoa Falls College and graduated with his Bachelor's Degree in Missions in 1986. It was there he met Gwen Pendell and they were married August 18, 1990. He and Gwen worked in Christian Ministry in several churches in Pennsylvania, eventually becoming an associate of International Friendships, Incorporated in Columbus, Ohio. It was a joyful day when they adopted Eliana, an 18 month-old from China. She arrived in Columbus on July 7, 2005. Jerry loved spending time with her and watching her grow.

Jerry loved music - especially quartet music. On occasion, he sang in quartets, adding the bass notes. He was also an avid OSU fan.

But Jerry spent most of his hours studying God's Word and preparing lessons to share. It was his true joy to tell Ohio State University students about Jesus and His Gospel, becoming a friend to the students first, then pointing them toward the Savior he deeply loved. In recent days he was also able to share his love for Jesus with people around the world via radio podcasts. While God did not grant his wish to physically go overseas as a missionary, He did grant Jerry the opportunity to share his lifelong passion with others who can now share it with others in those places Jerry was unable to reach.

He will be deeply missed.

Family and friends may call on Friday, May 16, 2025 at Highland Baptist Church from 5pm-8pm for calling hours. A private family burial will take place at Green Lawn Cemetery with a public Celebration of Life to follow at Highland Baptist Church, 3460 Hoover Rd. Grove City, Ohio 43123 on Saturday, May 17, 2025 starting at 11am.

Flowers can be sent directly to Highland Baptist Church.

Contributions can be made in memory of Jerry Shellhaas to In His Steps Foundation PO Box 31750 Independence, Ohio 44131 or to IFI General Fund or directly to the family for their support during this difficult time.