Mary Sue Shelton

Mary Sue Shelton, a beloved matriarch and cherished member of her community, passed away on January 18, 2025, at the age of 85. Born on January 29, 1939, Mary Sue's life was marked by her unwavering love for family, her passion for gospel music, and her profound faith.

Mary accepted the Lord at the tender age of ten years old during a tent revival, a decision that profoundly influenced her life and those around her. She began singing gospel music at a young age with her family, The Reid Family, this continued over 60 years. In 1976, she embraced her role as a pastor’s and evangelist’s wife when her husband, Rev. Bobby Shelton, announced his call to preach.

Known as "Mom Mary" to everyone fortunate enough to know her and sit at her table, she was a servant to all. A woman of many talents, Mary was not only a devoted caregiver but also a talented cook, who delighted friends and family with her great southern cooking, even feeding them at Mary’s Place, her country store in KY. 

Mary is survived by her daughter, Deadra (Deedy) Steele; grandsons, Troy (Katy) Peach and Travis (Amanda) Peach; and great-grandsons, Isaac, Clayton, Shelton, and Samuel, nephews, Derek Allgood and Darrin Hickman; and niece, Dayna Hunter. She is also remembered fondly by several great nieces and nephews who cherish her legacy.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Rev. Bobby Shelton; her sisters, Carolyn Allgood and Betty Hickman (James); and her parents, A.W. and Ella Reid.

Visitation will be held at Cole & Garrett Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Goodlettsville, TN, on January 21, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM and again on January 22, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. A Celebration of Life will follow on the same day from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM. Burial will follow at White House Memorial Gardens in White House, TN.

Mary Shelton will be deeply missed, but her legacy of love, faith, and music will continue to resonate in the hearts of all those she touched.