06/05/2026
The facility will be on a delayed open today at 12pm as we support our work family and Shelly’s family during her services today ❤️
Honoring the Memory of Shelly Raulston
It is with deep sadness that the City of Hobbs announces the passing of our valued colleague and friend, Shelly Raulston.
Shelly was an integral part of our municipal family for over 16 years, dedicating her career with the organization to serving our community across both the Finance Department and most recently the Hobbs Parks & Open Spaces Department. She was a wealth of knowledge, incredibly helpful, and always knew how to make people laugh. Honest and wonderfully straightforward, Shelly had a clear sense of priority and channeled her vibrant energy into what truly mattered and brought her joy.
Shelly was a fierce defender of her team and a pillar of support for anyone facing a tough situation. She had an intuitive knack for knowing exactly when someone needed a lift, always offering the right words at the right time and reminding her coworkers of their value, and that their thoughts and opinions matter.
Shelly’s vibrant energy and incredible creativity shined brightest during community events. Over the years, she participated in countless City of Hobbs events, from helping with Splash Bash and riding in local parades, to being our true "Queen of Halloween" with her spectacular makeup and costuming skills.
Her loss is deeply felt across our entire organization, including within the Parks and Open Spaces Department, where she affectionately served as the "Momma Bear" for her team for the past several years.
As City Manager Manny Gomez shared:
"Shelly was a valued member of our organization working in both Finance and POSD, contributing greatly to the City for over 16 years through her service and dedication. She will be remembered not only for her contribution, but also for the positive impact made on coworkers and the community."
During this difficult time, we ask our community to join us in keeping Shelly’s family, friends, and coworkers in your thoughts, and to share any fond memories you may have. Funny, incredibly smart, and remarkably strong, the impact Shelly made on those around her will never be forgotten.
Thank you, Shelly, for your many years of dedicated service, warmth, and friendship to Hobbs. You will be dearly missed.
