Machelle Lynn Croto

Machelle Lynn “Shelly” Croto, 52, of New Philadelphia, passed away on March 8, 2026 at her residence after an extended illness. Born on June 23, 1973 in Canton, she was the daughter of Sharon and Alan Nenning. Shelly worked providing after-school daycare and was a devoted member and active volunteer at Faith Baptist Church in Zoar.

A loving nana, mother, wife, sister, and friend, she is survived by her life partner David Croto; her children Courtney Fletcher of New Philadelphia, Shelby (Luis) Cumba of Carrollton, Joseph Croto of New Philadelphia, David (Destiny) Croto of Newcomerstown, Catherine (Dakota) Poole of Dover, and Jamie Eichel of Dover; two grandchildren, Jackson Hooks and Astella Croto; and her siblings Eddie Lee Sexton, Astelle May Sexton, William Lee Sexton, Sherry Sexton, Charles Kenneth Sexton, James Joseph Sexton, Christopher Lee Isenberg, Lonnie Lee Sandoval, and Kimberly Dawn Jarvis.

Shelly found joy in nature, flowers, fishing, kayaking, hiking, swimming, and camping. She especially loved lilies, the flower after which she named her beloved dog. She cherished art and drawing, music and dancing, playing cards and sharing coffee around the kitchen table, bowling, and coaching her children in sports. Her days were filled with volunteering at schools, churches, camps, and in her community. She delighted in games, pranks, and jokes, and her infectious laughter and warm sense of humor will long be remembered. Above all, she loved with her whole heart.

Shelly’s capacity for love touched everyone she met. Loud and vivacious, kind and gentle, strong and brave, humble and honest, patient and forgiving, she gave freely—even when she had little more than hope to offer. She saved lives, befriended strangers and made them family, and became “mom” to countless children. Unapologetically herself, she lived and died on her own terms, defying all expectations.