It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Shelby Jean Graham, age 88, on October 6, 2024.
Born in Laurel Springs NC, she was the daughter of the late Eleanor Marie (Huffman) Caldwell and Lamar Sheets.

Preceded in death by her loving husband James Edward Graham of 44 years, Shelby now joins him in what we can only imagine is a blissful reunion filled with love and laughter.

A devoted homemaker, Shelby managed the whirlwind chaos of raising six spirited children with grace, humor, and the uncanny psychic ability of knowing exactly what they were up to.

Shelby had a lifelong passion for gardening, finding great joy in nurturing plants and creating vibrant spaces filled with flowers and vegetables. Her green thumb was a testament to her patience and love for nature. In addition to her love of the garden, she was an avid reader who could often be found with a book in hand. Her love of reading was something she shared with her children, fostering in them a deep appreciation for stories, learning and imagination. Her garden and her books were her passions, and they live on in her family.

Shelby always brimmed with joy during family vacations to North Carolina to visit her sister. There, laughter echoed off the mountains as she and her sister, Mary Nell would spend hours cooking, swapping stories, and watching their children play, proving that family ties run as deep as the valleys below.

Shelby is survived by her children, Catherine Howard, Terry McVey (Ray), David Duff (Tina), Robin Jackson (Bill), Michelle Stanley (Vincent), James Graham (Karen), 18 grandchildren, 21 great grandchildren, her sister Betty Parsons and numerous nieces and nephews.

Along with her husband, Shelby is preceded in death by her daughter, Donna Duff, grandson, Zachary Graham, sisters Mary Nell Viers, Bonnie Lathrop, Shirley Workman, and brother Clarence Hitchcock.

While her absence leaves an indelible mark, her legacy of strength, wit, and resilience will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of those lucky enough to have known her.

A graveside memorial service will be held for family and friends on October 11, 2024, at 11:00 am at Harford Memorial Gardens, 3839 Aldino Road, Aberdeen MD 21991.
Online condolences may be made at www.zellmanfuneralhome.com.