A funeral service for Michael Derrick Shelley, Sr., 73, of Blythewood, will be held 2 o'clock, Saturday, December 28, 2013, at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses, 1009 Fulmer Rd., Blythewood, with Brother Matthew Coleman officiating. The family will greet friends Friday evening from 5 until 7 o'clock, at Shives Funeral Home, 5202 Colonial Drive, Columbia.
Michael was born July 14, 1940, in Marion, SC, and died peacefully at his home on December 20, 2013. He was the fourth of seven children born to the late Warren David Shelley, Sr., and Addie Louise Gregg Shelley. He graduated from Marion High School in June 1958, and attended Brevard Junior College where he developed his love for the mountains. After a four year stint in the Marine Corps, he attended and graduated from the University of South Carolina with a degree in marketing. He married Judy Butler on October 30, 1965 and had three wonderful children, Michael, Ashley, and Stephen. He has two grandchildren, Benjamin and Madison Shelley, and one on the way.
Michael went into business for himself in the mid 1970's, opening up many different companies along the way. He created several developments in the Blythewood area including Lake Ashley, where he raised his family, and Ashley Oaks. Later in life, Michael devoted much time to his faith. He was an integral part of the Blythewood congregation of the Jehovah's Witnesses and had been excited about his opportunity to pioneer and spread his faith.
Survivors include his sons, Michael Derrick Shelley, Jr. of Columbia, Stephen Butler Shelley of Blythewood; daughter, Ashley Shelley (Brian) George of Atlanta, GA; grandchildren, Benjamin and Madison Shelley; brothers, Carlton (Mary) Shelley of Baltimore, MD, Dean Shelley of Blythewood, Ronnie (Laura) Shelley of Irmo; sisters, Carolyn (Carl) Brooks of Hopkins, SC, Diana (Smitty) Grant of Mullins, SC; sister-in-law, Arline Shelley; along with many dear nieces, nephews, and friends. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Warren Shelley.
The family would like to thank the many friends who have shared their memories and expressed their love and appreciation for Michael. They would also like to thank the staff at Palmetto Hospice for their tender care.
Memories and condolences may be shared at ShivesFuneralHome.com.