Shelby Jean Hill

CARBONDALE - Shelby Jean Hill, age 84, passed away on Wednesday, November 13, 2024 at Helia Healthcare of Energy.

Shelby was born on November 18, 1939 in Carbondale to Raymond and Carrie (McKinney) Wright. Shelby married Bennie Joe Hill on June 4, 1958 in Murphysboro. He preceded her in death on February 27, 1986.

Shelby was raised on a small farm near Carbondale. She attended high school and was married at the age of 18 to Bennie Jo Hill. Thereafter he joined the Army. Shelby traveled all over the world with him, raising three rowdy boys.

At 5’2”, weighing less than 100 lbs, she was known for her feisty personality. She was a legendary early Christmas decorator, and her off the wall, random gifts will be missed by her grandchildren. The boiled squirrel, however, will be missed by no one!

Shelby adored kittens. She often had multiple litters of stray cats find their way to her. Removing them for care could lead to a litany of flaming cuss words from her tiny being. Her laugh could light up a room, and she held a presence wherever she went.

Shelby is survived by her sons, Jimmie (Belinda) Hill and Billie Hill; granddaughters, Alicia Wanke (Tim Wanke), Brittany Newton (Keith Newton), and Candice Hill; plus many wonderful great-grandchildren; and brother, Darwin Wright.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Bennie Joe Hill; parents; son, Tommy Hill; and brothers, Ivan and Glenn Wright.

Graveside Services for Shelby will be held at 10:00am on Saturday, November 23, 2024 at Oakland Cemetery in Carbondale.

Meredith Funeral Home in Carbondale assisted the family with arrangements. To leave a story or memory of Shelby visit www.meredithfh.com