Les Ivie

SHELBY- Les Ivie, a man who could make a rock collection look like a treasure trove and a Ford engine purr like a kitten, has taken his final ride into the sunset at the age of 64. Born on June 26, 1960, in Cleveland County, NC, Les decided to keep things simple by also departing this world from his beloved home on April 26, 2025.

For 40 years, Les owned and operated Shelby Landscaping alongside his son Nathan Ivie, where he transformed ordinary lawns into verdant masterpieces. His love for the outdoors was as vast as his collection of old Fords, which he cherished almost as much as his favorite chocolate ice cream. A true cowboy at heart, Les loved riding horses, farming, and tending to his cows and mules. When he wasn't busy with his landscaping empire or wrangling livestock, you could find him strumming his guitar, collecting rocks, or enjoying the simple pleasure of camping under the stars.

Les had a knack for finding beauty in the little things, whether it was a seashell on the beach or a scenic view from the mountains, always accompanied by his family. He shared a rare and enduring love with his wife, Shelia, whom he met in middle school. Together, they navigated life's milestones, from driver's ed to being baptized, proving that true love is timeless. Shelia fondly remembers Les as her hero, her rock, and the love of her life, saying, "Love you forever and always."

Les is preceded in death by his parents, R.N. and Nell Ivie; brother, Ron Ivie; sisters, Linda Johnson and Betsy Tice; and brother-in-law, Charlie Tice. He leaves behind a loving family who will carry on his legacy: his devoted wife of 46 years, Shelia Ivie; sons Nathan Ivie and wife Stacy and Justin Ivie and wife Taylor; daughter Carolanne Queen and husband Josh; brother Butch Ivie and wife Susie; grandchildren Emmitt, Sadie, Ruby, and Ava; sister-in-law Barbara Ivie; and brother-in-law Sonnie Johnson.

Friends and family are invited to celebrate Les's life at a visitation on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, from 6-8 pm at Clay-Barnette Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, May 1, 2025, at 2 pm at the same location, officiated by Pastor Joey Hamrick and Pastor Will Davis. Les will be laid to rest at the family farm, where his spirit will forever roam free.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Les's memory to Levine Cancer Center of Shelby and Hospice of Cleveland County. Les may have left this world, but his legacy of love, laughter, and landscaping will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

Funeral services are entrusted to Clay-Barnette Funeral Home & Aquamation Center.

www.claybarnette.com