Shelbie (She’) Lynn Smith, 33, of Statesville, N.C., passed away on Saturday, June 1, 2024. She is rejoicing in the arms of Jesus, peacefully at home with her Pawpaw, whom she greatly adored.

Born on April 4, 1991, in Charlotte, N.C., Shelbie entered the world in the company of her twin sister, Saundra. When her younger sister, Sidney, was born, she knew she had two sisters to protect and defend, and they will both miss her dearly.

Shelbie graduated from St. James High School in Surfside, S.C., in 2009, and enjoyed both her work and her friendships during her employment at JPS Composite Materials in Statesville.

Shelbie had a passion for the outdoors and cherished the time spent hiking and playing with her son, Gunner, and her beloved fur baby, Diesel. Those who knew Shelbie admired her strong work ethic, loving heart, and unwavering dedication to her family. Shelbie’s greatest joy was her son Gunner, whom she adored and cherished. She took pride in watching him grow, play, and discover the wonders of the world.

Shelbie is a beloved daughter, sister, mother, aunt, and friend. Shelbie’s resilience and strength in facing life’s challenges was truly remarkable. She was a warrior for those she loved and will be remembered for her courage and determination.

Shelbie was preceded in death by her grandfathers, George Smith and Allen Miller; and great grandmothers, Hazel Smith, and Edith Bond.

Shelbie is survived by her son, Gunner; mother, Cassie Smith Akers and husband Jeff; sisters, Saundra (Cassie) Singleton and husband Alex, and Sidney Bumgarner; grandmother, Saundra Miller; her dear nieces, Sailor and Clarke; and numerous uncles, aunts, and cousins.

A Memorial Service for Shelbie will be held at Bunch-Johnson Funeral Home in Statesville, N.C., on Sunday, June 9, 2024. Visitation will be held from 12 until 2 p.m., followed by a Memorial Service at 2 p.m. A reception will follow the service at the funeral home.

Shelbie’s passing has left a tremendous void in the hearts of many, but her memory will continue to live on in the lives she touched and the love she shared. She will always be remembered for her kind heart, “stubborn resilience,” unwavering love for her family, and her strong faith. May she rest in peace, knowing she is deeply loved and will be dearly missed always.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to fund set up to support the future needs of Shelbie’s son, Gunner. To make contributions to Shelbie’s Greatest Love: A fund for Gunner Smith, visit http://spot.fund/7h4cssc

Bunch-Johnson Funeral Home is serving the family.