Meet Shelly Lohmann
April 27, 2026 | People in Our Neighborhood
Finding your way after loss can feel isolating, but being part of a Community for Widows and Widowers can make it feel a little less lonely. After navigating profound loss in her own family, Shelly Lohmann is creating a warm, welcoming space where people in their 60s and 70s can connect, share, and build new friendships at their own pace. What started as a personal step forward has grown into something meaningful for others too.
Building a Community for Widows and Widower
My life changed in a big way in October 2024, when I became a widow. Just eight weeks earlier, my 38-year-old daughter, who has two young children, also became a widow. We are both still finding our footing and supporting each other through it all.
My husband Jeff and I were together for 14 years. We loved traveling, golfing, cheering on the Ravens, and going out to eat. Since losing him, staying grounded and finding joy has not been easy. I also recently retired, so I’m still figuring out how to fill my time, especially during the quieter winter months.
Finding Your Way After Loss
What has helped is saying yes to trying new things. I was part of the Next Chapter group at the Soul Center and started taking classes that sparked my interest. I’ve learned canasta, mah jongg, and pickleball, and I found a wonderful therapist. And of course, I spend as much time as I can “bubbiesitting” my three grandchildren, who are now 3, 4, and 8.
It was actually my daughter who introduced me to The Network. I applied, met with Brenda Footer, and began attending a widows and widowers group in Howard County. While that was meaningful, I wanted to build connections closer to home.
I’ve always been someone who likes to organize and help others.
After my husband’s yahrzeit, it felt like the right time to take a step forward.
That’s when the idea for a Community for Widows and Widowers came to life. And in many ways, I’m part of it too, having turned 70 in January 2026.
I spent nearly 20 years working at The Associated, and I know how hard it can feel to break into a community, especially one where people have known each other for generations. I want to help change that. Everyone deserves to feel like they belong.
What a Community for Widows and Widowers Can Look Like
What I wish more people understood about this stage of life is that there is no one path forward. Everyone moves at their own pace. That’s why our gatherings take place in my home, creating a space that feels warm, relaxed, and real.
This Community for Widows and Widowers is designed to meet people where they are, with no pressure and plenty of understanding. I love giving people a chance to talk, share their stories, and feel heard. There is something powerful about listening, connecting, and even crying together, and then helping someone take a small step forward.
When people leave my home, I hope they leave with a new connection, someone they can call, meet up with, and continue building a friendship. Right now, I’ve connected with about 17 people, and we’re continuing to grow.
Finding Purpose Through The Network Community
Being part of The Network has given me the opportunity to build new friendships and help others find the support and resources they need as they move into their next stage of life. It’s connected me with other incredible Connectors, including Lisa Greenberg, Stan Sherr, and Alyson Friedman.
Through this growing Community for Widows and Widowers, new friendships are forming in ways that feel easy and genuine. It has given me a renewed sense of purpose, and I’m grateful to be part of something that helps people feel less alone.
You can explore more ways to get involved through our Next Chapter experiences, meet our Connectors and discover upcoming gatherings designed to bring people together.
Joy, Connection, and What Comes Next
When I’m not connecting with community, I’m still trying to build it in my own way. I play pickleball, golf with local leagues, play canasta at the Myerberg Center, and spend time with my grandchildren. Sitting still has never really been my thing.
I’ve also been fortunate to travel all over the world, including living in Singapore, Istanbul, and Hong Kong. I’ve visited Israel, Egypt, parts of Africa, and across Europe and Asia, and most recently traveled to Morocco. Every trip has brought new memories and meaningful experiences. I truly hope there are many more adventures ahead.
At the heart of it all, this is about building real connection. Whether it’s sharing stories over brunch or simply knowing someone else understands, this Community for Widows and Widowers is a reminder that no one has to navigate this chapter alone.
If you or someone you know is looking for connection, friendship, or just a place to start, email Shelly Lohmann.
For those looking for additional support or information, organizations like the National Institute on Aging and AARP offer helpful resources around navigating life transitions.