The late Shelly Jane Cannaday was from Rio Rancho, New Mexico. Shelly passed away on June 21, 2024, and the community and her family are now facing the difficult task of preparing her burial and honoring her memory. Shelly, known affectionately as "Momma Cannaday," left a lasting impact on those who knew her.
Kristelle Siarza, a close friend, organized a GoFundMe campaign to help cover the unexpected funeral expenses. The campaign has raised $250 out of a $10,000 goal. Kristelle’s heartfelt message describes Shelly as a vibrant soul who loved crewing for hot air balloons, crocheting, and everything related to Elvis Presley. Above all, she cherished her family, treating everyone with a motherly love and care.
Shelly is survived by her mother, Daris Landreth, her brother Denny Landreth and his wife Shelly, two sisters, Valerie (DeeDee) Landreth and Kim Landreth-Tipton, and many cousins. She also leaves behind her beloved husband, Alan Cannaday, and her children Shalan Zisman, Christopher Cannaday, and Bryana (Breezy) Cannaday. Shelly was a devoted grandmother to her four grandchildren, Morghan, Madilynn, Troy, and Angelina.
Kristelle Siarza shared her grief on Facebook, writing, "Oh, how I will miss you, Momma Shelly. From your friendship at the target to your hugs, I’ll always cherish the best Christmas presents you ever gave me; your secret recipe for your banana bread, your handcrafted blankets, and your kindness."
Another friend, posting as Momma Shelly, reminisced about Shelly’s passion for hot air balloons, recalling, "When I was new to the crewing experience of Fiesta in 2021, I’ll never forget this fun, feisty little lady who wore bags over her shoes to keep them dry and loved hot air balloons more than anyone I knew. I’ll never forget the first day of Balloon Fiesta when she asked me, ‘Are you excited for today?’ Her gentle and kind voice made me feel like family."
A gathering to honor Shelly’s memory will be held at the Cannaday household on Saturday, June 29th, at noon. Friends, family, and loved ones are invited to attend and celebrate her life.
The Cannaday family is grateful for the support they have received and continues to seek help through the GoFundMe campaign to ensure Shelly receives the beautiful farewell she deserves.
Note:This post was written and edited by Grace Young, based on their expertise and research. It is intended for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice. We welcome your feedback and questions on this content. Please feel free to contact us.