Oscar M. Shelby Sr.

Oscar Melton Shelby Sr. was born in Rosedale, Kansas, on July 30, 1934, to Emmett and Mary Helen Shelby. He was the last surviving brother out of thirteen children. Oscar passed peacefully on May 17, 2025, in the comfort of his loved ones. He is preceded in death by his parents; three sisters: Mildred Andrews, Carrie Roby, and Albertina Cann; seven brothers: Orville, Orvette, Paul, Cecil, Rudolph, Quinton, and Don Shelby; and one grandson, Sharieff Omar Muhammed.

At a young age he joined Wesley Chapel Methodist Church and Mount Carmel Missionary Baptist Church in Rosedale, Kansas. He later joined Friendship Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor James A. Terrance Jr.

Oscar worked as head meatcutter and market manager for Safeway, Apple Market, and Thriftway grocery stores. He was a proud member of the UFCW Local District 576 and Local District 2. He retired after working for over 40 years. Oscar had multiple hobbies. He played softball, cards, and dominoes. He was an avid bowler who traveled to many places for bowling tournaments. He also enjoyed carpentry, building decks, and minor plumbing.

Oscar was married to Mary Lou (Johnson) Shelby from 1953 to 2009. He leaves to cherish his memory two daughters, Cynthia Shelby-Booker and Theresa McCoy (James). Two sons, Oscar Shelby Jr. (Joann) and Theron Shelby (Belinda). Two sisters, Lida Johnson-Carter (Booker) and Beverley Johnson. Fourteen grandchildren: Derek, Monica, Crystal, Ashley, Tyra, Brandon, Theron, Ashton, Terrell, Monique, Portia, Alicia, Christopher, and Quinton. Thirty-seven great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.