Opal Mae Shelden Smith

Opal Mae Shelden Smith, daughter of the late Ben and Edna (Case) Fuller, was born May 29, 1930 in Waynesville, Missouri where she grew up and graduated from high school. On June 9, 1949, Opal was united in marriage to Charles William “Bud” Shelden in Hot Sulfur Springs, Colorado. They shared over 50 years together and three children: Richard, Marcella and Richie. Infant son, Richard, preceded her in death and Bud preceded her in death on July 12, 1999. On August 17, 2000, Louis was united in marriage to Opal (Fuller) Shelden. They shared over 11 years of marriage together and many wonderful memories. Louis preceded her in death on January 30, 2012. Opal was a hardworking woman and took great pride in helping to provide for her family. She worked as a cook for the Waynesville R-VI School District for many years and enjoyed watching the kids while they came through the line. Opal enjoyed her home. She always kept her house neat as a pin and was a devoted mother and wife. She did like to go on day trips, whether it was to Branson or maybe to Springfield for shopping, but she always liked coming back to her home. In her later years, Opal did enjoy going to the Waynesville Senior Citizen’s Center to eat lunch and visit with everyone. At an early age, Opal made a profession of faith and was baptized. She was a charter member of the Hickory Hills Baptist Church of St. Robert and attended every time the doors were open until her health did not permit her to do so. Opal went home to be with her Lord on Tuesday, November 19, 2013 in the Phelps County Regional Medical Center of Rolla, Missouri having attained the age of 83 years, 5 months and 21 days. Opal is survived by her two children: Marcella Barber of Lee’s Summit, MO and Richie Shelden of Waynesville, MO; one sister: Fern Garrett of Waynesville, MO; three grandchildren: Neal English and wife Donna, Steven English and wife Sarah and Kara English; five great grandchildren: Jack, Charlotte, William, Ryan and Ethan English; several nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. In addition to her parents, husbands, and infant son, Opal was preceded in death by three brothers: Bernie, Norman, and Melvin. Services were held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, November 21, 2013 in the Memorial Chapels and Crematory of Waynesville / St. Robert with Rev. Leo Gladden and Rev. Lindell Shelden officiating. Soloist Becky Lercher sang “Amazing Grace” and “The Old Rugged Cross”. Serving as escorts were family and friends. Burial followed in the Dunkard Cemetery of St. Robert, Missouri.

Opal Mae Shelden Smith

May 29, 1930 - November 19, 2013