Mary Elizabeth Shell

Mary Elizabeth Shell, 73, passed away peacefully on the night of September 23rd after a long and courageous battle with multiple health challenges. Through it all, her unwavering faith in the Lord and her deep love for her family carried her through extraordinary hardship, pain, and discomfort. She spent some of her final weeks being comforted by family, looking at pictures and videos of her grandson Brandon, praising her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, and singing gospel music with her siblings.

Mary lived her life as a shining example of unconditional love, honesty, and compassion. She nurtured her family with empathy and resilience, always encouraging and uplifting those around her. With a strong faith and a heart devoted to prayer, she was constantly present for her loved ones, offering guidance, comfort, and strength whenever it was needed most.

Early in life, Mary’s journey took a joyful turn when she met her husband, Johnny Shell, in Loudon, Tennessee. He fondly referred to her as “Little Bit” when they began dating. Together, they raised two children, Candy and Corey Shell, and later moved to Kentucky when Corey was very young. Mary was a constant source of support and encouragement for both of her children. She will always be remembered by Candy and Corey as the “Best Mother in the World.” The loss of her daughter Candy was a significant and painful challenge for Mary, Corey, and Johnny. Her steadfast faith and the joy she found in her family, especially her beloved grandson Brandon, carried her through life’s greatest trials, including the heartbreaking loss of her daughter

Mary was preceded in death by her daughter, Candy Shell; her parents, Willie and Dora Thompson; her brothers, Gene, Bill, Rocky, Mervin, Clifford, Donnie, and Charles “Chic” (Peggy) Thompson; her sisters, Alma Nix Moore, Bernice Anderson, and Wanda Eller; and her beloved puppy, Dylan.

She is survived by her husband, Johnny Shell; her son, Corey Shell (Roze); her cherished grandson, Brandon Shell; her sister, Joyce Colvard (Gene); and her brothers, David Thompson (Petey) and Sam Thompson (Deb). She is also survived by a host of cousins and extended family. Fondly known as “Mimi” to Brandon, Mary adored her grandson with all her heart and soul, treasuring every moment she shared with him and taking immense pride in the young man he is becoming.

Mary’s legacy is one not only of faith, love, and devotion to her family, but also of the gift of life. A double organ transplant recipient, she was blessed with many additional years through the grace of God and the generosity of donors. Following her daughter’s example, she too chose to be an organ donor, and through her selfless gift, others will now have the gift of restored sight.

Though her family grieves her passing, they rejoice in knowing she is free from pain, reunited with her beloved daughter Candy and other cherished loved ones, and resting in the arms of her Savior.

The family will receive friends on Sunday, September 28, 2025, from 1:00 to 3:00 PM. The funeral service will follow at 3:00 PM with Rev. David Thompson officiating. Interment will take place immediately following the service at Davis Cemetery.