Saltville, Va.

Shelby Jean Tolbert Stephenson, age 81, passed away Wednesday, November 8, 2023. Shelby was born July 6, 1942 to the late Glenn and Elsie Tolbert of Saltville.

Shelby married her lifelong best friend, the late Roy Scott Stephenson, Sr. in January, 1964. From there, Shelby traveled with Roy to multiple states while he was enlisted in the Army. Shelby and Roy then returned home and settled down in Rich Valley where they started their cattle and dairy business. Shelby was an avid walker and loved tending to her garden each summer.

Shelby was preceded in death by her husband, Roy Scott Stephenson, Sr.; parents, Glenn and Elsie Tolbert; and brother, C. W. Tolbert.

Shelby raised three children; Xan Buchanan (John Lee), Scotty Stephenson (Vickie), and Chip Stephenson (Krystal). Along with her children, she had four grandchildren; Payton Stephenson (Kala), Karleigh Stephenson (Mason), Perry Stephenson and Clayton Buchanan. Shelby also had two great-grandchildren, Lily and Rylee. She is survived by two sisters, Patricia Slagle of Kingsport and Glenna Anderson of Roanoke; and multiple nieces and nephews.

Shelby was a lifelong member of Locust Cove Presbyterian Church and the family would like to ask in lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to her church or Youth Bible School. The addresses are: Locust Cove Presbyterian Church in care of Fada Lamie, 3195 Old Shannon Road, Saltville, Va.24370 and Weekday Religious Education in care of Jerry Orr, 4505 Valley Road, Saltville, Va. 24370.

A graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, November 12, 2023 at Ridgedale Cemetery in Rich Valley, Va. with Pastor Scott Spence and Pastor Michael Klumpp officiating. Pallbearers for the service will include: Perry Stephenson, Clayton Buchanan, Mason Akers, Payton Stephenson. Karleigh Stephenson, and Matt Frye. Honorary pallbearers will include: Curty and Charlie Smith, Lenny Robbins, Brad Carter, and Raymond DeBord. Special friends include: Mac and Pat Buchanan, and Fada and Charles Lamie; and caregiver, Lenora Griffey.

Online condolences may be expressed at drhendersonfuneralhome.com. The D.R. Henderson Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Shelby Jean Tolbert Stephenson.