Shelly Y. Upchurch

Shelly Upchurch, age 59, of Crab Orchard, IL, passed away on Friday, September 19, 2025 at 12:53 a.m. at Deaconess Illinois Medical Center of Marion, IL.
She was born on November 27, 1965, in Carmi, IL, to Michael Eugene and Zelda Yvonne (McKay) Taylor.
She was a graduate of Crab Orchard High School Class of 1984.
After graduating high school, Shelly chose a path of service and patriotism by enlisting in the United States Army. After her period of military service, she returned home to work in the family business, Diesel Injection Service, Inc. of Crab Orchard, IL. In an industry often dominated by men, Shelly held her own with confidence and pride, always referring to herself as "a woman in a man's world."
Shelly was a member of Coal Bank Springs Baptist Church of Dykersburg and served as secretary of the Crab Orchard High School FFA Alumni Chapter. She was also a dedicated volunteer at The Lighthouse Shelter in Marion-a cause that was incredibly close to her heart. Helping others was simply part of who she was.
Known for her strong opinions and matter-of-fact way of speaking, Shelly always told it like it was-and people respected her all the more for it. Behind her straightforward demeanor, however, was a heart full of love and generosity. She never met a stranger, and she had a remarkable way of making people feel welcome, heard, and cared for.
Shelly was a beautiful person inside and out-someone who was always willing to help anyone in need, and who gave of herself without hesitation. Her legacy of strength, service, honesty, and compassion will live on in the countless lives she touched.
She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by the precious loved ones she leaves behind.
She is survived by her daughter, Mikyla Upchurch of Crab Orchard; her mother, Zelda Taylor of Crab Orchard; three step-children, Mallory (Bryce) Hill, Halee (Jake) Melvin and Harrison Upchurch, all of Pittsburg, IL; five step-grandchildren, Giovanna Hill, Ellington Hill, Harbor Melvin, London Melvin and Holland Melvin; brothers, Andy Taylor (Sandy Turner) of Carrier Mills, IL and Scott Taylor of Crab Orchard; sister, Brandie (Jason) Cooper of Kankakee, IL; nieces and nephews, Cody (Chelsea) Taylor, Katelyn (Brandon) McRill, Mason Taylor, Drake Cooper and Mia Cooper; great-nieces, Avery Taylor, Rilynn Taylor, Mila McRill and Lyla McRill; a very special uncle and aunt, Richard and Sherrie Taylor; as well as many other aunts, uncles, cousins, other extended family members and friends; and her beloved dog, Rufus.
She was preceded in death by her father, Michael Taylor and an uncle, Bobby Taylor.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Wilson-McReynolds Funeral Home, 900 North Court Street, Marion, IL.
The visitation will be at Wilson-McReynolds Funeral Home on Saturday, September 27, 2025 from 10:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m.
Following the time of visitation on Saturday, the funeral service will be at the funeral home at 1:00 p.m. with Reverend Jesse Orr presiding.
Burial will follow beside her father in Coal Bank Springs Cemetery, Dykersburg, IL.
For those who prefer, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to the college fund for her daughter, Mikyla. Checks may be made payable to "Mikyla Upchurch." Envelopes will be available at the funeral home or may be mailed c/o Wilson-McReynolds Funeral Home, 900 North Court Street, Marion, IL 62959.