Shelbey Collette Christensen

Our beautiful and deeply loved daughter, Shelbey Christensen, age 19, passed away on August 19, 2013 after falling 120 feet while repelling in Zion National Park with one of her closest friends. Shelbey was born on September 22, 1993 in Salt Lake City, Utah to Jason and Tammy Banks Christensen. She was the first born of four children. She loved and cherished her family dearly and considered them her best friends. From the moment she was born, she was determined. Born with a congenital birth defect called gastroschisis, she was quickly rushed to the intensive care unit where she fought for her life and lived. Her mortal mission would begin. She was a strong, independent and faithful daughter of her Heavenly Father. She was born and raised in West Jordan, Utah and attended Copper Hills High School. She graduated in 2012 with a 3.998 GPA and received three different scholarships to attend Southern Utah University in Cedar City. She was putting herself through her 2nd year of college and would have graduated the spring of 2015 with a bachelor's degree in communication. She loved to dance, do silly things with her friends, draw, laugh and bring a smile to your face. She could make the best turkey calls and peacock sounds. She was an avid lover of One Tree Hill and Psych. She enjoyed creating things. She was loved by many and excelled at anything she put her mind to. She made best friends for life. She was beautiful inside and out. Shelbey's piercing blue eyes and contagious smile were amazing. She even selflessly donated here corneas this week to someone in need. Although her time here on earth was cut short and her mortal mission fulfilled, her vivacious spirit will live on with family and friends. Her testimony of the Gospel of Jesus Christ can be found at http://mormon.org/me/B48Z/ShelbeyChristensen. Written in her own words a year ago, she knew why she was here and she believed in the Plan of Salvation. For that, we are eternally grateful. We couldn't have been more blessed to have Shelbey be part of our lives and know her mission continues beyond this life. She will be deeply missed. She is survived by her mother and father, Jason and Tammy Banks Christensen. Her siblings, Mikayla (14), Trey (12) and Zackery (9). Grandparents, Gerry and Judy Christensen and the late Cecilia Christensen. Judy Banks, and the late Norman and Donnette Banks. Numerous aunts, uncles and cousins who love her! Special thanks to the Cobble Creek 11th Ward for their generosity and support during this difficult time. A viewing will be held at the Cobble Creek 11th Ward, 8150 South Grizzly Way (approx. 5400 West), West Jordan, on Sunday, August 25th where friends and family may visit from 6 to 8 pm. A funeral service in her honor will be held on Monday, August 26th at 11 am in the same building. Viewing prior from 9:30 to 10:30 am. Please share memories and condolences at www.serenicarefuneralhome.com.

Shelbey Collette Christensen

September 22, 1993 - August 19, 2013