Shelby Jean Walker

Shelby Jean Walker was born in Caruthersville, Missouri, on November 19, 1939.  She was the daughter of Hardy Privett and Margaret Medlin Privett.

She departed this life in Jackson, Tennessee, on October 18, 2023.  She was 84 years old.

On June 15, 1958, she was united in marriage to Paul Walker.  He preceded her in death.

Shelby became a “Navy wife” once she married Paul.  Not only was she a “Navy wife” but she became a “Chief” wife which she was very proud of.  They traveled all over the world during his service years.  They lived in Naples, Italy, Hawaii, Maryland, Connecticut, and Virginia.  After his retirement, they returned to Caruthersville. 

Once Shelby got back to Caruthersville, she was very active.  She worked at the National Bank and loved seeing and interacting with all her customers and other employees.  She served on the City Council (just as her father did), and always participated in the Wreaths Across America yearly ceremony.  She enjoyed working at the local florist where she was gifted in flower arrangements. 

Of everything Shelby did, the most important was loving her family.  She loved spending time with them and playing games.  Skipbo was one of the favorites and she loved keeping up with who was leading in total games won.

She was a very active member of the First Baptist Church.

She is survived by her daughter: Kelly Harden (Mike) of Jackson, Tennessee; one sister: Margie James; one brother: Larry Privett (Deanna); six granddaughters; two great grandsons; four great granddaughters; and other relatives and many friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and a daughter – Kathi Steadman.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, November 11, 2023, at 11:00 am at the First Baptist Church in Caruthersville, Missouri. Visitation will start at 10:00 am.

H.S. Smith Funeral Home in charge of services.