Shelby McDonald

Shelby Hamlett McDonald, aged 71, passed away peacefully on May 16, 2025, at her home in Mills River, North Carolina. Born on July 18, 1953, in Yancey County, North Carolina, Shelby lived a life marked by dedication to her family, faith, and those she served through her work.

Shelby began her career at Something Special in Hendersonville, where she devoted several years as an assistant caring for individuals with physical and mental disabilities. Her compassion and commitment to helping others were evident in every aspect of her work. Later, she served as the church secretary for Naples Baptist Church, where she was not only an employee but also a faithful member of the congregation.

Shelby had a passion for crafting and spent many joyful hours creating handmade treasures. She cherished time spent camping with her family, finding peace and happiness in the great outdoors. A lover of Christian music, Shelby’s life was filled with melodies that reflected her deep faith and love for God. Above all, she was a hard-working and loving wife, mother, and grandmother whose devotion to her family was unparalleled.

Preceded in death by her parents, Bud and Marion Calloway Frady, and her brother, Steve Calloway, Shelby leaves behind a legacy of love and kindness. She is survived by her devoted husband of 51 years, Robert McDonald; her beloved sons, Chad McDonald and his wife Tammy, and Neil McDonald and his wife Julia; her cherished grandchildren, Amber (Luke), Stephen (Kaylee), Mason, and Boston; and her precious great-granddaughter, Lily Mae Smith. Shelby is also survived by her sisters, Tina Frady and Tonya Hughes, along with several nieces and nephews who will miss her dearly.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM Friday, May 23, 2025, in the chapel of Forest Lawn Funeral Home, with Pastor Richard Merck officiating. Burial will follow in Forest Lawn Memorial Park.

The family will receive friends from 1:30 PM – 2:00 PM Friday at the funeral home.

Shelby’s warmth, generosity, and unwavering love touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. She will be remembered fondly and missed deeply by her family, friends, and all whose lives she enriched.