Shelley O. Smith

Shelley O. Smith was born in Ogden, Utah on January 18,1946 the first born son of the late Cecil and Ivy Smith. God called Shelley from labor to reward on April 29, 2018.

He attended grade school and High School in Ogden, Utah graduating from Ogden High School.  As a child growing up, Shelley was a active member of the Wall Avenue Baptist Church, now known as New Zion Baptist Church. An anointed singer and percussionist, Shelley's passion for music was cultivated at an early age by his mother Ms. Ivy, rehearsals would often be held in their home where friends and neighbors would come to enjoy the singing. Along with his mother and siblings, Shelley traveled throughout the Utah area singing in various churches.

Shelley joined Calvary Missionary Baptist Church in 1972 serving faithfully for 46 years, during which time he held brief but productive tenure as Director of the Calvary Mass Choir, Youth Choir, Childrens Choir and the Male Chorus, setting a worship precedent in each musical auxiliary, including the Calvary Band. 

Shelley married Carolyn E. Dixon on February 7, 1981 and was later blessed with the birth of their son, Courtney Isaiah Smith. 

 Shelley served as an MP in the 25th Infantry Division of the United States Army during the Vietnam War, May 1967 and was Honorably Discharged with the rank of Private First-Class E3 in May of 1973. He was a recipient of the Purple Heart for Valor, Army Commendation Medal for Heroism, Rifle Sharpshooter, Vietnam Service and Campaign Medals.

Shelley, along with his brother Cecil, formed the band "Five Jacks and a Queen" which later became known as "Back to Back".  They performed throughout the 60's and 70's.  He enjoyed golfing with his bother-in-law and friends, conversing with neighbors and meeting new people, learning their stories, and above all, spending time with his family, immediate and extended.  Shelley possessed a forgiving and generous heart.  He was very sensitive and empathetic, and protective of his family.  He lived his life convicted in Christ. His greatest joy, and the center of his life, was his love for, and relationship with Jesus Christ, and letting his life shine as an example of the goodness of God to others.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Cecil Smith Sr. and Ivy Smith; sisters Hazel McEwen and Cecilia Smith; and brother Cecil Smith Jr. 

He is survived by his bride of 37 years, Carolyn E. Smith; his sons Courtney I. Smith, Michael Wesley, and Jonathon Strother; sisters Bobbie Harvey and Zenobia Smith; and a host of nieces and nephews, extended family and friends, too numerous to count. 

As we celebrate his life, and honor his memory we shall never forget the words that inspired his deeds and thoughts: "Serving the Lord will pay off after a while."

A general viewing will be held on Wednesday, May 9, 2018 from 6:00 - 8:00 PM at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City. A funeral service will be held on Thursday, May 10, 2018 at 12:00 PM at Calvary Baptist, 1090 S. State Street, Salt Lake City, where friends may call upon the family one hour prior. Interment to follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, 1342 East 500 South.