Deborah Diana Smith Shelton, a woman of profound kindness and a nurturing spirit, passed away on April 6, 2026, at the age of 64. Born on September 27, 1961, in St. Louis, Missouri, to the late Daniel and Gaye Story Smith, Deborah spent her life cultivating love in all its forms. Whether she was tending to her family or her garden, her touch was one of patience and care.

Deborah’s heart was always drawn to those who needed it most. Even from a young age, she possessed a rare and beautiful soul for the elderly, dedicating much of her time to their care and companionship. At home, her "greenest of green thumbs" was legendary; she had an uncanny ability to coax life from the soil, growing anything she set her mind to. She found joy in the simple rhythms of life—never missing an episode of Wheel of Fortune and filling her home with the timeless sounds of classic country music.

On June 17, 1986, she married the love of her life, Carl Shelton, with whom she built a foundation of nearly 40 years of marriage. Her greatest pride, however, was her role as a mother and grandmother. She leaves behind a rich legacy through her children: daughters Anna Dendy and Alisha Hardin (Trampis) of Houston, MS, and Angelina Shelton of Bethel Springs, TN; and sons Carl D. and Cody Shelton. Her spirit will live on in her 11 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, who were the lights of her life.

She is also survived by her sisters, Donna Walters of Houston, MS, and Gayle Silk of Godfrey, IL, along with a host of nieces, nephews, and her dear, long-time friend, Jim Gray, who she called “Mister”. Deborah was preceded in death by her parents, her sister Geannie Clark, and her brother-in-law David Gene Walters.

Deborah will be remembered as a woman who cared deeply, worked quietly, and loved fiercely. Her family will carry the memory of her green gardens and her compassionate heart with them forever