Esther A. Shelby

A gathering of friends and family celebrating the life of Esther Shelby will be 2:00 PM Saturday, October 5, 2013, at Zion Lutheran Church. Cremation arrangements are by Anderson-Burris Funeral Home. Esther Albertine, the youngest daughter of Emil and Albertine (Teske) Schiewe, was born April 26, 1926, near Stillwater, Oklahoma, and passed away September 30, 2013, in Enid. She was baptized July 2, 1926, and confirmed in 1939. Her early schooling was at Pleasant Hill and Christ Lutheran, and she graduated with Perry High School Class of 1943. Esther received her Associates Degree at St. John’s College and Bachelor of Arts/Elementary Education from Southwestern in Winfield, Kansas. In 1970, she earned a Master of Education at Central State College in Edmond. While attending Southwestern, she met her future husband Biddle Bellmont Shelby. They were married June 10, 1951. This union was blessed with three children, Irvin, Brad and Janet. Esther was a devoted mother, best friend, confidant, and advisor. She was a faithful wife, devoted daughter, supportive aunt, and loving sister. She was the best Grandma. She planned outings and summer vacations. She cooked favorite foods. She taught pie making and pumpkin carving. Grandma Esther loved the challenge of Skipbo and dominoes. She drove miles for swimming lessons and state park adventures. She boasted of each grandchild’s accomplishments and was pleased to be included. She was given a queen’s name and measured up to the title. Esther’s pupils are testaments of her teaching philosophy: love to learn. She prepared tirelessly for next day’s lessons and expected a child’s best. Singing, creative art, and fun – the first and second graders at Marshall squishing in the VW bug – bring smiles yet today. She loved children and children loved her. Letters from Esther were easily recognizable – her round primary printing on the envelope. She included things of interest – thought-provoking or just funny. She seldom forgot a birthday, and if able, appeared with her infamous angelfood cake. Her gift was encouragement, and her prescence was always welcome. Esther loved Jesus and served her church wherever needed: Sunday School, LWML, Ladies’ Aide, Church Council. In Woodward, she served as president of the Professional Business Women Association. She was a member of Zion Lutheran Church and Marshall Senior Citizens Center. She is survived by three children: Irvin and wife Linda of Sulphur, Brad and wife Annette of Marshall, and Janet Murphy and husband Mike of Marshall; grandchildren: Mandy Shelby, Amy Shelby, Angie Shelby, Shelby Murphy, Earl Murphy, Benjamin Shelby, Bryan George, and the late Bethany Peckham; several nieces and nephews. Memorials may be made to Zion Lutheran Church, Fairmont.

Esther A. Shelby

April 26, 1926 - September 30, 2013