Shelva "Shelby" J. Harmon

Shelva “Shelby” J. Harmon, age 89, of Dover, passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 24, 2026, at Hennis Care Centre in Dover, surrounded by her family.

Shelby was born on September 23, 1937, in New Philadelphia to the late Marian (Berndt) and Harold Burkholder. On June 13, 1959, Shelby married Robert “Hoppy” Harmon, beginning a beautiful life together that spanned 67 years. They shared a love of traveling the country, often finding joy in simply hopping in the car and heading off to a casino for an adventure together. They also enjoyed antiquing, always keeping an eye out for unique finds and adding to their beloved collection of retro mushroom kitchenware. Shelby dedicated 32 years of service to Dover Chemical before retiring, leaving behind a legacy of hard work and commitment.

Shelby loved cooking and baking for her family. Everyone enjoyed her baked beans and delicious pies. She was an avid reader with an extensive book collection, and often could be found reading multiple books at a time. She was a fan of the Cleveland Guardians, and also enjoyed watching Duke College basketball. She was a faithful member of Faith United Global Church in Dover.

Shelby will be deeply missed by her husband, Robert;her children, Paula (Rob Frevola), and Eric Harmon; her granddogs, Chloe, Layla, and Tucker; her niece, Teresa (Dave) McCombs; and nephew, James “David” Reidy.

In addition to her parents, an infant daughter, Laura Lee Harmon, and her sisters, Mary Lou Burkholder and Deanna Kay Reidy preceded her in death.

Donations in Shelby’s honor can be made to the Alzheimer's Association or the American Cancer Society.

A funeral service honoring Shelby’s life will be held on Thursday, October 29, 2026 at the Toland-Herzig Funeral Home in Dover at 11:00 officiated by Pastor Shelly Nordine. The family will be greeting guests one hour prior to service. Burial will follow at the Dover Burial Park. Please leave an online condolence by visiting the funeral home’s website.