Abby Dale (Ward) Shope, 31, of Millersville, Maryland, passed away November 24th, 2023, at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland.
She was born Monday, February 17th, 1992, in Clarksville, TN.
Abby graduated from Stewart County High School in Dover, Tennessee.
She found her soulmate, Seth Shope, early in life, they were married in 2010, and the couple relocated to New England to begin their joined life following his naval career.
Abby was a proud, devoted Navy wife.
She earned her Bachelors in Animal Science from the University of Connecticut in 2015 leading to her work as a veterinary technician and caretaker of medical research animals at the University of Maryland in Baltimore. Abby’s gentle touch provided comfort to countless furry companions and research animals.
She was passionate about the outdoors and nature, weightlifting, the beach, travel, and Jeep Wranglers over the years. Abby’s love for exploration took her on adventures worldwide, creating a treasure trove of memories that reflected her adventurous spirit.
At home, she found solace and joy in the company of her two cats, Jinx and Jethro, and the unwavering love of her amazing husband, Seth.
What endeared Abby to so many was not just her professional dedication or love for travel but the warmth she exuded in every interaction. She always found a way to connect with those around her on different levels that allowed her to meld into any group and be loved by all. Abby made friends easily and LOVED them like family. Her laughter was infectious and contagious and instantly unforgettable.
Her hugs were legendary, wrapping friends and family in a comforting embrace that conveyed a depth of love beyond words.
Abby’s legacy is one of laughter, love, and the enduring impact of her vibrant spirit. To all who knew her, she will truly be missed.
Abby is preceded in death by her mother: Robin Joy Lehman and grandmothers: Nell Wallace and Bettye Ward.
Abby is survived by her husband: Seth Shope, of Millersville, Maryland; her father: Philip Dale Ward (Donna), of Dover, Tennessee; parents-in-law: Daniel Shope (Tammy), of Cumberland City, Tennessee; siblings: Daniel Rushing (Mandy). of Clarksville, Tennessee, Cathy Ward, of Nashville, Tennessee; step-siblings: Deana Robinson (Chris), of Clarksville, Tennessee, Daniel Maiolo, of Denver, Colorado, Adam Johnson (Denielle), of Clarksville, Tennessee; grandfather: Ray Ward, of Dover, Tennessee, and many loving aunts, uncles, cousins, nephews, nieces, godchildren, in-laws, and close friends.
A public memorial and celebration of life for Abby will be Sunday, December 10, 2023, at 2 p.m. at Anglin Funeral Home with Pastor Jeff Wallace officiating.
Will open visitation at 1 p.m.
Interment will follow at Fairview Cemetery, Indian Mound, Tennessee, privately at a date to be determined.
Arrangements are entrusted to Anglin Funeral Home, Dover, Tennessee.
In lieu of flowers, donations in remembrance of Abby can be made to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (bcrf.org) or Leukemia Research Foundation (leukemiarf.org).
Abby’s family and friends would like to extend their deep, heartfelt gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and staff at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center for their work, support, and care.