Shelley O. Smith
January 18, 1946 - April 29, 2018
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.
In Loving Memory
Carolyn and Courtney, Our hearts are broken when we saw our good friend Shelley has passed away. We love him so much.From the first day we met him, he gave us his special hugs and told us he loved us. His heart was so full of love, kindness and light. The world has lost a great man, however, the heavens gained an angel. We will miss him terribly. May God send his healing grace to you Carolyn and Courtney. We pray that God will dry every tear and give you the strength to needed to go. We love you both so much. Thank you for being our friends.
Sidney and Vicki Wade
salt lake city, UT
It's a sad day the lost of a Good Friend Shelley was a great man treated you with respect always had a smile Our Thoughts And Prayers are with you Carolyn and Courtney Shelley will be deeply missed Til we met again my friend
Ron Martinez
West Jordan, UT
A golden voice is silenced here on earth but we know Shelley is singing up there in heaven. My thoughts and prayers are with Carolyn, Courtney, and all of Shelley's family and loved ones. Susan
Susan Anderson McCaskill
nan, Tx
Carolyn, I am deeply saddened to hear of Shelley's passing but also so happy for him. Every observation I've had of him tells me that he has gone back to his Heavenly Father and that it will be such a happy reunion. He seemed to be thankful for every day God gave him and he truly made every day that I saw him a little brighter. I've thought about both of you so often and I hope that you will reach out if there is anything I can do.
Darrell Baranowski
Syracuse, UT
Carolyn, how sad I was to hear of your husbands passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Shelley was a beautiful-hearted one-of-a -kind human. He will be greatly missed.
Michelle Burin
Sandy, UT
Carolyn and Courtney, What a beautiful tribute video. It was so sweet to see you Courtney as a baby with your daddy, and you Carolyn, a beautiful bride with your sweetheart. Thank you all for touching my life. Tammy
Tammy Pullan
Salt Lake City, Ut
I had the privilege of knowing Shelley in Junior High School and Ogden High School. He was always kind and always cared for other people. He blessed my life with the joy of his music. The world is a better place because Shelley's every footstep left a glowing impression on all who knew him.
Sonja Paschal Linsley
Allen, TX
I knew Shelley thru work. He was always good for a smile and some happy moments. I played some very enjoyable rounds of golf with him, too. He was a great man, and will be missed.
Scott Burnham
West Jordan, Ut
Our prayers are with all of Shelley's family and loved one
Wayne & Esperanza
Fayetteville, Ga
Caroline and Courtney, Meeting and getting to know your husband and father was such a privilege. The laugh, the smiles, and somerimes the tears will be dearly missed. As a believer in Jesus Christ, may your entire family be blessed with comfort and peace from the same arms in which Brother Shelley is now resting in. Tifus and Anthony Long
Tifus and Anthony Long
Murray, Ut
To the Smith Family, Our deepest condolences. Brother Shelly had such a sweet and loving spirit in all he did. Was very welcoming when I first joined Calvary and was always helping me learn and laugh in Sunday school. Mercedez absolutely enjoyed singing with him and his voice will forever resonate in our hearts! Rest in Heaven!
Amber, Mercedez and Steven Hoskins
Sandy, UT
To the Smith family, you have our deepest sympathy. We pray that you find comfort and peace. From the Tillman & Frye family who have known Shelley for a long time, he will be missed. We have surely enjoyed seeing him throughout the years at Calvary and having a little bit of Zion/Ogden there. May God continue to bless and keep you.
Tricia Broadnax
nan, nan
Carolyn, I am so sorry for your loss. Shelley was such an amazing man, so cheerful and positive and a joy to be around. I will never forget the wonderful filling he's left in my heart. My prayers go out to and your family.
Judy Coult Frantz
Murray, UT
Carolyn, I was sad to miss seeing you at the viewing yesterday. I so wanted to give you a hug. I'll never forget Shelley singing in the halls at work (Watson), and the wonderful hugs he gave freely to all. Such a wonderful man is now in the arms of his Savior. May the Lord grant you peace and wrap you in the arms of his love until Shelley can hug you again. Much love and many prayers for you and your family.
Ann Bracken
Cottonwood Heights, UT
Dear Smith Family, Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. My heart ached when I learned of Shelley's passing. He was such a kind soul and a great example to us all on how to live and truly enjoy life. I am sure that Shelley has joined the heavenly choirs and is playing some amazing golf! May the Lord bless you always. Craig Child
Craig Child
nan, nan