Shelley Henry Sperka

It is with sorrow that we share the passing of Shelley Henry Sperka on May 26, 2025. Diagnosed with dementia not even a year ago, she fought courageously but ultimately left us peacefully. Shelley was a remarkable woman whose warmth and kindness touched the lives of everyone who knew her. Her vibrant spirit and infectious smile brought joy to countless moments, and her absence will be deeply felt in our hearts. As we celebrate her life and the memories we hold dear, we recognize the lasting impact she made on our lives and the love she shared with those around her.

Shelley was born August 1, 1951 in Syracuse, New York. She grew up in the countryside with her siblings and much-loved horses, cats, and dogs. In 1970, her father took a teaching job at Wofford College in Spartanburg, SC, and she herself attended, where she met Scott, her future husband. Shelley was among the first women to graduate from Wofford. She and Scott married and welcomed two children, Adrian and Caitlin. Shelley later earned her master’s degree from the University of South Carolina, Columbia and began her career as a Technical Services Librarian at Wofford, her alma mater. She supported numerous students and academics in her 30-year tenure.

In her golden years, Shelley embraced her artistic calling as a talented fused glass artist. Over the years, she created and generously gifted many pieces to her friends and family, leaving a lasting impact on the artistic communities in Tryon and Spartanburg. Shelley was also an avid reader and participated in several book clubs throughout her years.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Scott; mother, Dee; father, Edmund; and brother, Mark. She is survived by her children, son, Adrian and daughter, Caitlin (Josh); grandsons, Davis (18), Ryker (10), Grey (14), and Rinehart (9); sisters, Robin (Nancy) and Kim (Jeff), brother-in-law, Michael Sperka, and numerous nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, kindly donate in Shelley’s memory to the Sandor Teszler Library at Wofford College, Tryon Arts & Crafts School, or the South Carolina Governor’s School for Science & Mathematics Foundation. A memorial service will take place in 2026 with forthcoming details.