Rebecca “Becky” Shiley

Rebecca “Becky” Shiley, age 73, passed away peacefully on June 11, 2026. While her passing was unexpected, she was surrounded by the love of family and friends, whose presence brought her comfort in her final days.

Becky lived with a rare combination of strength, kindness, and generosity. She made friends wherever she went, welcomed people without judgment, and left every place a little brighter than she found it.

Born in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Becky was the daughter of the late William C Lenox and Ruth Lenox (Easton). She is also survived by her brother, Bill Lenox (Kay) of Washington, D.C.; her stepbrother, Mathew Seymour (Kim) of Boston, MA; their families; and her stepmother, Jane Lenox.

Becky shared 25 wonderful years with her beloved husband, John Shiley. Together they built a life filled with love, laughter, adventure, and unwavering support for one another. Through life’s joys and challenges, John was her constant companion and greatest partner. Their marriage was a testament to friendship, devotion, and the deep bond they shared.

She was also a devoted mother to her daughter, Angela Gohn Gochenaur, and son-in-law, Tom. Becky was a proud and loving grandmother to Devon, Ophelia, and Emmett Gochenaur, who were truly the light of her life. Affectionately known to them as “Bubble”, never Grandma, thanks to her dear friend and Niece Karen and her children. Becky cherished every moment she spent with her grandchildren. Nothing brought her greater joy than being with them, cheering them on, spoiling them whenever possible, and creating memories that will live on in their hearts forever.

A proud graduate of Donegal High School, Becky carried the values of community, friendship, and hard work with her throughout her life. The friendships she made and memories she created during those years remained close to her heart, and she always treasured her roots in the Donegal community.

Throughout her career, Becky worked in different capacities for the Lancaster newspaper, where she built lasting relationships and touched the lives of many through her warmth and professionalism. Following her retirement, she continued to devote herself to the people and causes she cared about most.

Becky embraced life with enthusiasm and energy. She was known for always being on the move, often running and staying active. She treasured time spent with the “L’s,” cherished family gatherings, and believed deeply in treating others with kindness and respect. She never hesitated to stand up against injustice and was a passionate advocate for fairness and compassion. Becky was also a gifted artist whose creativity brought beauty and joy to those around her. She had a profound love for animals and a tender heart for all living creatures, often extending the same compassion to animals that she so freely gave to people.

Those who knew Becky will remember her generous spirit, infectious smile, and ability to make everyone feel welcome. She had a remarkable gift for spreading kindness wherever she went and for finding joy in life’s simple moments. Whether through a thoughtful gesture, a listening ear, or simply showing up when someone needed her, Becky made people feel loved, valued, and seen.

Becky is also survived by many dear friends, extended family members, neighbors, and loved ones whom she cared for deeply throughout her life. While it would be impossible to list every name, you know who you are. The friendships, laughter, support, and memories you shared meant the world to Becky. Your lives touched her as deeply as she touched yours, and the love she carried for each of you will remain part of her lasting legacy.

A celebration of Becky’s life will be scheduled in the coming months, where family and friends will gather to honor her memory and the countless lives she touched.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to a local animal shelter in Becky’s honor, reflecting her lifelong love and compassion for animals.

Becky lived life to the fullest and believed everyone should have the privilege to do so as well. For Becky, hug your family and be kind to that stranger down the street.

She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.