Jeanell Kite Shellnut

Jeanell Kite Shellnutt, age 90, of Midland, Georgia, passed away peacefully at her home on June 27, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family.
Jeanell was born on April 16, 1935, in Opelika, Alabama, to James Brady Kite and Ethel Louise Jenkins. She spent most of her life in Americus, Georgia, where she was known for her kind spirit, welcoming smile, and deep devotion to her family and faith. A faithful member of Rehoboth Baptist Church, Jeanell's life was a testament to the love and grace she shared with everyone she met.
Jeanell had an incredible green thumb and loved tending to her flowers and yard. She found joy in travel, having visited all 50 states, and proudly collected a coffee cup from each along the way, each one holding a story of her adventurous spirit and love for life.
She was a dedicated secretary during her working years and also worked for Silas Bush Texaco & Fresh Farm Produce, where she was known for her work ethic and bright presence. Jeanell was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 64 years, Paul McKinley Shellnutt, Jr.; her brothers Brady Lamar Kite, Ronald "Pete" Kite, and Douglas Kite; her sister Wonda Bright; her sister-in-law Judy Ware; and her brother-in-law Tommy Shellnutt.
Left to cherish her memory are her son, John Paul Shellnutt, and daughter, Joy Shellnutt; her brother, Donnie Kite; her sisters, Sally Hargrave, Georgette Stewart, Charlotte Yarbrough (Wayne), and Cynthia Kay; and her sisters-in-law, Linda Cox, Patty Newsome, and Joan Pierce. She also leaves behind her beloved caregivers, Korena Tucker and Sharon Manns, and her "chosen children," John and Cherry Arthur, who brought her much joy.
Jeanell will be remembered for her warm laughter, her love of family gatherings, and the way she made each person feel valued and loved. Her legacy of faith, family, and kindness will continue to inspire all who knew her.
A funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, at Rehoboth Baptist Church in Americus, Georgia, with Pastor James Beckett officiating. Interment will follow at 3:00 PM at Park Hill Cemetery (Macon Road) in Columbus, Georgia. The family will receive friends for visitation on Monday, June 30, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Greg Hancock Funeral Chapel.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Rehoboth Baptist Church in Jeanell's memory.
Jeanell's family and friends take comfort in knowing that she is now resting in the arms of her Savior, reunited with those who have gone before her, and tending to Heaven's gardens with her joyful spirit.