Geoffrey Hall Shanklin of Melrose, passed away unexpectedly at his home, Friday, December 12th, 2025.

He was born on April 4th, 1953 in Boston, Massachusetts, the beloved son of the late Robert Marion and Jeanne (Hall) Shanklin. He grew up in Melrose and was an active member of the First United Methodist Church community in Melrose, an association he maintained until his death.

Geoff graduated from North Yarmouth Academy in Yarmouth, Maine. He spent one semester as an exchange student in Stuttgart, Germany, where he spent his free time hitchhiking across Europe. He attended Murray State University in Murray, Kentucky, his father's alma mater, as a student of German and Journalism. He received recognition for passion and excellence in his study of the German language.

Following graduation, he pursued his love for photography on a freelance basis. Geoffrey shared a love of travel and history with his dad, and they were able to visit Europe on several occasions. They even ventured as far away as Egypt where they rode camels and indulged their fascination with ancient history and cultures.

Geoff's other interests included woodworking, reading, computers, and his cats. He often assisted his mother with her cat rescue missions. He was a diehard Boston sports fan and attended several of the championship parades that our city has been blessed with.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a nephew, Spenser Robert Selby. He leaves his sister, Elizabeth W. Shanklin-Selby (Greg) of Frederick, MD. and nieces, Margaret Jee Whittier Selby of Frederick, and Jessica Selby (Tori) of Richmond, VA. He also leaves his beloved cats, Willow and Star, who will become part of his sister's pet family.

Graveside services will be private. Interment will be at Oak Grove Cemetery, Medford, Ma. A Memorial Service for Geoffrey will be held at the First United Methodist Church, 645 Main St., Melrose, on March 28, 2026 at 11:00 AM. A collation will follow the service.

Donations may be made in Geoffrey's memory to the Melrose Humane Society, PO BOX 760688, Melrose, MA, 02176

www.melrosehumanesociety.org Please note in memo that donations be used for "Brians Rescue Cats", in honor of Willow and Star.