On November 15, 2023, heaven gained a true angel by the name of Shelby Jean Connelly. Shelby was born on June 8, 1940 to Paul and Geneva Delffs in Oakdale, TN. Shelby graduated from Stuttgart, Germany where she was later named “Miss Stuttgart” before returning to the United States with her family.
Shelby later met and married the love of her life, and husband of 63 years, Thomas E. Connelly, Jr. Together they made a beautiful life full of love, laughter, friends, and family. Family was everything to her. They had three children, Cindy Connelly (Kyah), Deborah Standridge (Tony) and Kevin Connelly (Christie). She would later become “Mimi” when their family grew to include six beautiful grandchildren: Taylor, Justin, Dylan, Matthew, Tanner, and Abbie; and recently, one great grandchild, Savannah (Savvy).
Mimi adored her family and nothing made her happier than to be surrounded by them as often as possible. They spent many weekends and holidays enjoying their “Lake Life” together.
Mimi was predeceased by her parents, two brothers, and one sister. She also suffered the loss of three of her grandchildren.
She is survived by her loving husband; her sister, Carrol Timmons; her children; grandchildren; great grandchild; and many special cousins, nieces, and nephews, who all loved her very much.
There will be a private memorial service and burial on Monday, November 20, 2023.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, https://www.stjude.org/donate
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.caughmanlexington.com for the Connelly family.
