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Donald Shelby Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Donald Shelby
Sponsored by Patricia King Gilmore.
Ruth Brissenden
April 4, 2025
My mother, Frances Mariposa, was a member of St. Mark's Methodist Church in Clairemont back in the 70's when Rev. Shelby was there. Rev. Shelby provided counseling and encouragement to my mother in a very uncertain time of her life. His compassion and kindness was truly a blessing and inspiration.
Ray W. Russell
November 25, 2023
As a graduate student at UCSD for 6 years , I enjoyed singing in St Mark´s choir & listening to Don´s excellent sermons. In fact, I still have some of the printed copies & hope to review them again soon. I just wanted his family to know how much of an impact he had on me, & that I still appreciate the restored sense of perspective he gave me each Sunday. Ray Russell
Pat Gilmore (king)
April 1, 2021
I forgot to say in my earlier remarks that Don spoke along with several other preachers at my mother, Lillian King’s, funeral in 1978. He attended the 100th reunion of Torrance UMC in 1996 and that was when I last saw him and my friend, his niece Cindy.
Pat Gilmore (King)
August 15, 2018
I am so happy for the privilege of making the guest book permanent and to write in it.
Don Shelby was my youth pastor at Torrance UMC and the uncle of two of my childhood friends, Cindy Routh and Bob Shelby. My mother, Lillian King, was church secretary when he was there and typed his thesis (not on church time!). He was very much loved by all. I remember his wonderful singing voice and being in youth choir when he directed it. He always said the bénédiction had his name in it for now and ever Shelby'' and I cannot hear it without thinking of him!
I found his book Meeting The Messiah in my library and that is what prompted me to Google him and find his memorial and this book. Now i'm going to read his book too!
He was a gift to all who knew him. My best to his family and many friends.
Shirley Paugh
July 30, 2012
In memory of Rev. Don Shelby and in honor of the wonderful minister/teacher/friend he was to our entire family.
Rev. Rick Blunt
April 12, 2012
Don Shelby was a mentor and friend whom I never met, but he touched my life, nurtured my soul, and enhanced my ministry. A good friend, Mary Birgelaitis, introduced me to Don's sermons in 1979. I subscribed for years.
During my seminary years and early years in the ministry, Don's sermons became the centerpiece of my personal worship time. I found that in order to preach to others, I needed to sit under someone else's preaching. Don modeled excellence in preaching which this beginning preacher cherished, both spiritually and professionally. Often my congregations would hear me reference Don Shelby. So Don's word, wisdom and storytelling touched people he never knew along the shore of "the other west coast" in Traverse City, Michigan and through other communities.
I want Don's family to know that his ministry reached far beyond southern California. This preacher was mentored by a man I never met, but have long respected. Thank you, Don Shelby for all you've given to me.
Phil Young
April 9, 2012
As a teenager, my late wife Barbara Norton Young was a member of Rev. Don Shelby's congregation in Hacienda Heights. She so much admired him and his qualities that, after her family, he was the first person she introduced me to. He later counseled us and performed our marriage ceremony in 1964. Over the next 30 years we kept in touch with Don and Jean as they and we moved from place to place. When Barbara was taken from us in an unexpected and sudden manner in 1994 Don was one of the first persons that I call. He delivered a beautiful eulogy at Barbara's service; much like a father who had lost a daughter. I still have a copy of his words. The world is a better place because of Rev. Shelby and it was my privilege to have known him. Most sincerely,
Phil Young
Russ Whittenburg
April 9, 2012
Reverend Shelby was truly a light unto this world, showing us all a path towards love and redemption. I will miss him greatly but know that his Lord is welcoming him "home" at last.
Pam Beebe
April 9, 2012
Dear Jean,
Even though I didn't know Don very well, I'll always keep
a fond memory of you both when we walked our dogs around Monarch Grove - Don was such a kind and gentle man, who obviously loved God with all his heart. May the God of all comfort bless you and all your family mightily, knowing that we will see Don again -
Valari Garcia
April 9, 2012
Rev. Shelby was always a ray of sunshine.
He always had a kind word and a smile.
I only knew him and Jean for a couple of years but the joy and hope they displayed was contagious. I will miss seeing you. With Deepest Sympathy,
Mark Brown
April 8, 2012
Rev. Shelby meant a lot to me and my family. I've known him all my life. He baptised me as a child. I used to acolyte and crucifer for him as a teenager. He married me and my wife and baptised both of my sons. He's served as my spiritual guide and role model for as long as I can remember. He was dearly loved and will be greatly missed. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Jean, Darla, Dana and their families. He may be gone but he will never be forgotten.
April 8, 2012
Don was a huge part of the life of our family. He baptized our two sons in Santa Monica, came out of retirement to officiate at the wedding of our oldest son in Livermore and then baptized our two grandsons in Atascadero. We shall miss our friend greatly. Our love and condolences to Jean and the girls and their families.
Mary Beth Jordan
April 8, 2012
Rev. Shelby was a kind person to me, and I'll always remember that he treated me with respect, even though I was just a teen-ager. My condolences.
April 7, 2012
Dear Donna Jean and girls, My Dad has been keeping me posted on Don. I have such fond memories of his love of music. I didn't realize that he was born in Kansas and sang for the governor. What a life well lived for our Lord and Savior. His legacy will live on for years. My prayers are with you all during this difficult time of his passing. Blessings, Holly (Dave McBride's daughter) and family
April 7, 2012
We lift prayers of gratitude and thanksgiving for Don and his faithful ministry. We will lift him in prayer on Easter Sunday. Rev. Patricia Farris and the congregation of First United Methodist Church Santa Monica
Jeanne DiMeglio
April 7, 2012
I remember Rev. Shelby fondly while growing up as a friend of Dana's in Santa Monica. He was always calm and kind. My condolences to you, Dana, and the whole family.
Merris Brady
April 7, 2012
Don and I were in the same class at Baker University. Don and I were United Methodist pastors. It is long distance, but today I grieve on hearing of Don's death. My condolences to his family.
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