Shelby Ann Kilpatrick, age 77 of Arley, passed away Tuesday, July 2, 2024 at her home surrounded by her loved ones.
She was born September 25, 1946 in Addison, Alabama. Shelby was the daughter of Alonzo and Frances Alexander. While growing up on their family farm, those formative years instilled in Shelby a strong work ethic and resourcefulness that defined her life. She graduated as valedictorian of her class in 1964, setting the stage for a life filled with achievements and love.
After high school, Shelby pursued her passion for beauty and entrepreneurship by opening her own beauty salon. April 21, 1967, she married Terrry Kilpatrick and together they welcomed their children, Chuck, Lee’Ann and Tyren. Shelby’s nurturing spirit extended beyond her immediate family; in 1982 she discovered her love for teaching cosmetology at Winston County Technical Center where she inspired countless students over the years. Simultaneously, Shelby and Terry embarked on a successful venture into Smith Lake real estate, a passion project that brought them joy throughout the 1980s and beyond.
In the 1990s, Shelby expanded her teaching career to Bevill State Community College in Hamilton, Alabama, while delighting in the arrival of grandchildren Dane, Trent, Rhett, Brett, Titan and later, great- grandchildren Judd, Emma, Jayci, Eli, and Rhen. Shelby transitioned in 2007, she dove into managing her real estate and condominium businesses, ensuring her days remained vibrant and purposeful. She cherished every opportunity to travel with family and friends, making the most of her time together. In 2018, she welcomed her last grandson, Titan, around the same time as the arrival of her great- grandchildren, further enriching her life with love and laughter. Even in the face of adversity when Shelby battled stage 4 cancer, she approached each day with resilience, positivity and an unwavering love for her cherished circle of family and friends.
Visitation will be Friday, July 5, 2024 at Sardis No.2 Missionary Baptist Church from 12:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. where the service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Burial will be in the adjoining cemetery. Brother William McClellan and Brother Greg Dollar will officiate. Chuck Kilpatrick, Tyren Kilpatrick, Dane Kilpatrick, Trent Kilpatrick, Brett York, and Rhett York will serve as pallbearers. Titan Kilpatrick will be an honorary pallbearer.
Shelby is survived by her devoted sons; Chuck (Kim) Kilpatrick and Tyren (Jennifer) Kilpatrick; grandchildren, Dane (Jessica) Kilpatrick, Trent (Brittany) Kilpatrick, Brett (Catie) York, Rhett (Emily) York and Titan Kilpatrick; great- grandchildren, Judd, Emma, Jayci, Eli and Rhen. She is also survived by her brother, Daryl (Phyllis) Alexander; and a host of nieces and nephews and cherished friends fondly known as “The Golden Girls” and “Trail of Tears”.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Terry Kilpatrick; daughter, Lee’Ann Kilpatrick; parents, Alonzo and Frances Alexander; brothers, Shirl and Billy Alexander.
Shelby Ann Kilpatrick will be remembered for her boundless love, unwavering strength and the profound impact she made on everyone fortunate enough to know her. Her legacy of kindness and determination will continue to inspire and guide us all.
