Sammie D. Shelby
Sammie D. Shelby, a beacon of faith and love, passed away peacefully on December 25, 2023, at the age of 95, in Sullivan, Missouri. Born on July 10, 1928, in Mammoth Spring, Arkansas, to Samuel and Gertie (Crick) Shaw, Sammie's life was a testament to devotion, family, and the joy of simple pleasures.
Sammie's journey began in the heartland of America, where she grew up between Arkansas and Tennessee. At the tender age of 15, she married the love of her life, Taylor Shelby, on March 8, 1944, in Reeves, Tennessee. Together, they started a family that would be the center of Sammie's world. The couple lived a vibrant life across the Midwest, eventually making their home in Pascola, Missouri, where they shared many cherished moments.
Sammie embraced her role as a homemaker with grace and dedication. Known for her exceptional cooking and maintaining an immaculate household, she created a warm and welcoming environment for all who crossed her threshold. Her work was her family, and she poured her heart into every task, ensuring her loved ones always felt cared for and loved.
Her faith was the cornerstone of her existence. Sammie attended church with unwavering commitment, often leading songs and, on occasion, delivering the message herself. Her love for Pepsi was matched only by her sense of humor and the joy she found in her grandchildren, whom she adored deeply. Lisa and Samantha, two of her grandchildren, were lovingly raised by Sammie, a testament to her nurturing spirit.
Sammie's talents extended to music, where she could often be found strumming her box guitar, often times alongside Taylor, even in the wee hours of the morning. Her passion for southern gospel music was infectious, and she relished the opportunity to entertain and connect with others through song.
Above all, Sammie was a devoted wife, a fun mother, and a friend to many. She will be so dearly missed and lovingly remembered.
Sammie is survived by her three loving daughters: Dora Cupp and husband Doyen of Cuba, Missouri, Robin Faddis and husband Arthur of Arnold, Missouri, and Patricia Souders and husband Kenneth of Overland, Missouri; eleven grandchildren: Doris, Paula, Eddie, Carl, Lisa, Teresa, Samantha, Arthur Jr., Matthew, Daniel and Mark; a host of great, great–great, and great-great-great grandchildren; many other nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Taylor Shelby; two children, Johnny Shelby and Dorothy McCormick and husband Jerry; a grandson, Robert Faddis; her parents, Samuel and Gertie Shaw; and five siblings: Johnny Shaw, Cecil Shaw, Winnie Spencer, Thelma Shaw, and Wilma Shaw.
Funeral Service will be 11 AM, Thursday, January 4, 2023, at the Eaton Funeral Home in Sullivan with Dora Cupp officiating.
Visitation will be 10 – 11 AM, Thursday, January 4, 2023 at the Eaton Funeral Home prior to the funeral service.
Interment will be 2 PM, Friday, January 5, 2023 at Terrace Hill Cemetery in Troy, Tennessee.
Friends may send their online condolences to Sammie’s family at www.eatonfuneralhome.com
All arrangements are under the care and direction of the Eaton Funeral Home and Cremation Center of Sullivan.