Diana Sue “Susie” (Nofftz) Shellabarger, age 78, died Friday, October 9, 2026, at home in Champaign, Illinois. She was born August 21, 1948, at Mercy Hospital in Champaign, the younger of two daughters born to George Nofftz and Edna (Block) Nofftz.

Susie attended Champaign High School, class of 1966. After graduation, she attended classes at the University of Illinois. She then moved to Normal, Illinois, where she lived and worked for a short time before returning to Champaign. Susie was a bookkeeper for the Champaign County Association of Realtors, a position she held for more than 30 years. Upon her retirement in 2015, the association honored her with an award for her decades of exemplary service. Following her retirement, Susie remained in Champaign and enjoyed traveling and spending as much time as possible with her children and grandchildren.

Susie was a loving and caring mother and a beloved, kind grandmother. She enjoyed nothing more than spending time with family and friends while sharing meals and celebrating holidays. She was a talented cook who selflessly hosted countless family gatherings and celebrations in her home. She had a tremendous sense of humor, and her infectious laughter brightened every room she was in. In her spare time, she was a voracious reader, especially of mystery novels, and enjoyed watching classic movies and TV. She was an avid Fighting Illini and Chicago sports fan. Susie also cared deeply for animals and loved the many dogs, birds, and other pets she owned over the years.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother-in-law, Robert Reierson. She is survived by her son, Bryan (Katie) Shellabarger of Lithia, Florida; her daughter, Carrie (Erik) Alexander of Highland, Illinois; four grandchildren, Ava and Jack Shellabarger and Elliot and Evan Alexander; her sister, Virginia Reierson of New Jersey; and several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and a great-nephew.

After-life care is being provided by Renner-Wikoff Chapel, 1900 S. Philo Rd., Urbana. A funeral will take place Sunday, October 18, at 11 am at Mount Olive Cemetery, St. Joseph. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to the Champaign County Humane Society (cuhumane.org).