Shelley Hynes

Shelley Hynes, 68, of O'Neill, died Thursday, Oct. 30, 2025 at the Avera McKennan Hospital in Sioux Falls, SD.

Private services were held at the O'Neill Cemetery in O'Neill.

Memorials may be made to the family for future designation.

Biglin's Mortuary in O'Neill was in charge of the arrangements.

Shelley Hynes, born April 24, 1957, in O'Neill, to Donald and Beuna (Calkins) Hynes.

Shelley grew up northwest of O'Neill, where she attended country school through the eighth grade before graduating from O'Neill High School in 1976.  She went on to earn her associate's degree from a business school in Grand Island.

After college, Shelley moved to Omaha and began a long and dedicated career with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, where she served as a payroll clerk and secretary for 20 years. She was recognized with multiple awards, including a 10-year service award and a 16-year federal service honor for her commitment and hard work with the Geology Section in the Omaha District.

In 2000, Shelley returned to the O'Neill area to care for her mother.  She had a deep love for animals especially her cats and was known for her compassion toward them.  Shelley rehabilitated countless squirrels back to health and was a trusted dog sitter for many families. Her gentle heart and nurturing spirit extended to all creatures, great and small.

Shelley also loved to read and cherished her time traveling, both in Europe and across the United States, often with her beloved mother by her side.

Shelley is survived by her two nieces and loving friends and neighbors.

She was preceded in death by her parents and sister Lynda.