Mary Lyda Shelton

With heavy hearts and profound gratitude for a life adorned with love and laughter, we announce that Mary Lyda Shelton was reunited with her Savior on March 4, 2025. She passed peacefully at her home in Knoxville, Tennessee at the age of 89. Born on June 13,1935 in Manchester, Tennessee, Mary was the beloved daughter of Thomas Powell and Vera Madeline Walker Shelton, who welcomed her into her heavenly home, along with her two cherished brothers and treasured sisters-in-law, Joe Powell (Sally) and George Roger (Jane) Shelton. Mary was a shining light, a strong godly woman whose unwavering faith guided her through life’s challenges. She lived her beliefs, sharing warmth and compassion with others, and she brightened our lives with her radiant smile. Her loving, caring and outgoing nature drew people near to her and made her a beloved friend and confidante. She maintained many lifelong friendships that enriched her life. Mary’s passion for family was unmatched and she took great pride in her four children and their families, fostering a strong sense of love and unity that reverberated through her large family. Known for her quick wit and playful sense of humor, Mary brought joy to countless gatherings, especially when surrounded by children, who recognized her youthful and mischievous spirit. She loved holidays, especially the magic of Christmas, and her home was a haven we’ll recall and miss every time we taste sweet tea or smell a pecan pie baking. She’ll linger with us in the comforting melodies of a Doris Day or Patsy Cline tune and in the slow sway of a Tennessee waltz or in the exuberant rhythm of Rocky Top. A proud Tennessee native, Mary grew up in Manchester, Tennessee. She was graduated from Manchester High School in 1952 and earned her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Tennessee in 1956. Mary was a dedicated fan of the University of Tennessee Vols, happily donning her orange and white attire and rarely missing a game. Indeed, she was in Texas in 1951 and in Arizona in 1998 when her Volunteers won national football titles. She was a devoted member of Central Baptist Church of Bearden for over 50 years, where she dedicated her time and talents to working with children. She was a much-loved resident of Sherrill Hills in Knoxville, spreading warmth and kindness there and remaining active in that community until the day she was called home. Mary is survived by her two daughters, Karen Davis (Gordon) of Rio Verde, AZ, and Amy Stevens (John) of Charleston, SC; her two sons, Jimmy (Jonica) and Kevin (Michelle) Clayton, both of Knoxville, TN; along with ten grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren, and nieces and nephews who will carry forward her legacy of love and faith. In celebration of Mary’s remarkable life, the family requests that those who knew and loved her well gather on Monday, March 10, 2025 from 1:00-2:00PM for a receiving of friends followed by a service honoring Mary’s memory at 2:00PM. Both the receiving of friends and the service will be held at Mann Heritage Chapel located at 6200 Kingston Pike, Knoxville, TN 37919. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations be made to East Tennessee Children’s Hospital at https://www.etch.com/ways-to-give/make-a-donation/ in memory of Mary Lyda Shelton. Though our hearts are grieving Mary’s loss, we will forever cherish the profound love she instilled in us, the treasured memories we shared, and the countless stories which will continue to uplift her family and friends.

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Mary Lyda Shelton

June 13, 1935 - March 4, 2025