Shelley Talbert Vincent's Obituary
Shelley Talbert Vincent
October 18, 1939 - April 25, 2024
Shelley was born and raised in Camden, Arkansas. She moved to Mobile, Alabama during her high school years. Shelley attended the University of Alabama, then married and returned to Mobile and raised her four children there. She later completed her degree at the University of South Alabama in her late 40s. Shelley began a career at International Paper in the 1960s and relocated to Memphis in 1989.
Shelley retired from IP after a successful career in IT systems. She then went to work for the City and County in Memphis as a Victim’s Advocate and worked full-time until her 81st year. She was a beloved Southern woman who graced our lives with her warmth, wisdom, and wit for 84 memorable years. She was not only loved but deeply respected and appreciated by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Shelley was witty, intelligent, fierce, strong, and adventurous, those are just a few of the adjectives to describe the matriarch of the “Vincent” family. She was all of that and so much more. Shelley could be your biggest advocate and toughest critic. She shot it to you straight with absolutely no fluff or frills.
With her quick wit and supportive advice, she could light up any room and bring joy to even the gloomiest of days. Her humor was a gift she generously shared with everyone around her, leaving us with countless cherished memories and endless smiles. Shelley had a wanderlust spirit, finding joy in exploring new places and immersing herself in different cultures. Her love for travel took her around the world, but she always carried with her the charm and grace of her Southern roots.
Among her passions, there was a special fondness for British culture. From savoring a cup of tea to indulging in classic literature and British comedy, she found delight in all things British, especially enjoying her trips to Great Britain and Ireland to explore her ancestry.
Shelley was an Elder and participated in the Stephen Ministries at Lindenwood Christian Church where she was a member for almost 35 years and was active in Sunday School and the Choir.
Shelley is survived by her children, John D. Vincent (Mayra), Alicia Stires (David), David Vincent, and Ellen Valorose (Michael), and her grandchildren Tony Vincent, Ryan Vincent, Samantha Stires, Spencer Stires, Kelly Dauenheimer, Rachel Vincent, Alexandria Valorose and Kyle Valorose and 4 great-grandchildren.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Herbert and Myrtle Talbert, and grandson, Jeffrey P. Vincent. Shelley also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews that she has remained close with throughout the years.
The family would like to acknowledge and thank Mom’s beloved companion and caregiver, Kim Fayne, who provided fun and adventure over the past year and a half and allowed Mom to maintain her independence.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Research Hospital as Shelley participated for years in “The 3 Wishes Project” to support families of St. Jude patients.
A Celebration and Thanksgiving for the life of Shelley Talbert Vincent will be held on Monday, April 29, 2024, at 11:00 am at Lindenwood Christian Church, 2400 Union Avenue, Memphis, TN 38112
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