Obituary published on Legacy.com by S.M. Goodson Funeral Homes and Crematory - Talladega on Nov. 22, 2025.
Born on August 4, 1956 at 12:01a.m., in
Talladega, Alabama, to the beloved union of Walter and Willie Bell Barclay, Sheldon embraced life with a passion that touched everyone he encountered.Sheldon accepted Christ at an early age, finding his spiritual home at Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church, where he dedicated his heart and soul to his faith. His educational journey led him through the Talladega County School System, culminating in a proud graduation from Winterboro High School in 1974. Following his high school years, he honorably served in the United States Army from 1974 to 1977, instilling a sense of duty and commitment that would define his life.After returning to civilian life, Sheldon began his professional career at Bemiston Mill Textile, furthering his skills at Nunnelly State Technical College, where he earned degrees in masonry and carpentry. He applied his talents at Wehadkee Yarn Mill and later excelled at Tyson Foods before becoming a dedicated process associate at Honda Manufacturing of Alabama, where he worked until his retirement in June 2016.Among his greatest joys was the love he shared with his soulmate, Margaret Barclay, whom he wed on June 18, 1998. Over their 27 years together, they raised three beautiful children, Shaun, Zabrina, and Kami, creating a family woven with love and laughter. Sheldon affectionately known as "SHEP" was a man of many interests-his joy was found in fishing, traveling, carpentry, and cheering on the Alabama Crimson Tide. His laughter, filled with warm humor, will echo in the hearts of all who knew him, especially during cherished moments spent with his grandchildren.Sheldon Richardson Barclay, departed this world peacefully on November 22, 2025, at the age of 69 with his loving family at his side. Sheldon's journey on this earth was not without sorrow, as he was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Willie Bell Barclay, Sr. and his brother, Walter Barclay, Jr. Yet, he leaves behind a legacy rich in love and cherished memories.
He is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Margaret Barclay; son, Shaun Barclay, Sr.; daughters, Zabrina (Demarco) Willis and Kami (Antoine) Watts; his beloved grandchildren, Kameron Chapman, Am'erica Bennett, Dominic Willis, Donovan Willis, Shaun Barclay, Jr., and Crue Barclay; as well as his dear brother James Lee (Margaret) Barclay; sisters, Brenda Barclay and Susan (Michael) Pernell, mother-in-law, Shirley Curry; aunts Thelma Estelle and Linda (Winston) Scott, along with a wealth nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends who adored him.In the words of his family, Sheldon was a remarkable man who blessed our lives through his humility, kindness, and indomitable spirit-may we continue to carry his legacy in our hearts, a testament to the love he shared and received. We invite all who knew him to join us in a celebration of his life, ensuring that his spirit and the joy he brought will live on in the stories we share.