Sheldon Jay Slone, 77, passed away May 13, 2017 in Winter Park, Fla. He was born on Mother’s Day, May 14, 1939. Originally from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, he graduated from Peabody High School. He served in the U.S. Navy and shortly after met his wife, Linda, after completing his time in the service.

He and Linda and their two young sons moved to Central Florida in the early 1970s to pursue an opportunity to general manage a new furniture store concept in Casselberry.

After 17 years of being a career furniture salesman and manager, “Shelly” dreamed of owning his own furniture store. After purchasing an existing furniture business in 1980, that dream became reality. S.J. Slone’s Furniture Gallery was born in a small metal building on Highway 17-92 in Longwood. No longer did Shelly have to conform to the corporate way of selling furniture. A true entrepreneur, his success was created offering personalized service, quality products, at an affordable price. He was loved by his clients and the families he served in the local community. Sons Louis and Michael Slone run the family business still housed in its original location for nearly 37 years.

Shelly loved to play golf, frequent the health spa, and had a great interest in sports cars. He once owned a beautiful collection of collectable Corvettes. He was a character and will always be remembered for his sarcasm and his sense of humor. Just a few short months ago, Shelly scored a hole in one while playing golf with his buddies from the Westminster in Winter Park.

He is survived by his wife, Linda Slone; sister, Lynn (Leslie) Schultz; brother, Robert Slone; sons, Louis (Desiree) and Michael (Lisa) Slone; granddaughters, Alana and Jaden; grandson, Harrison; and many nieces and nephews.

He will always be remembered for his engaging conversations and how much he loved to give out hugs to all! A father, grandfather, husband, brother, uncle and friend...Shelly will be missed!

A memorial service was held on May 16, at Congregation of Reform Judaism. Memorial donations may be made to Westminster of Winter Park or Cornerstone Hospice & Palliative Care.