Verna Mae Shelby

Verna Wells, a beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully at her home on September 18, 2026, at the age of 84. Born on April 7, 1942, in Bremerton, Washington, she was the cherished daughter of Fletcher J and Theresa H Wells (Junkin). Verna's life was a testament to dedication and resilience. She received her education in the Central Kitsap School District, graduating from East High School in 1960. Her career began at Imperial Manufacturing, where she contributed to the production of skin diving and survival suits for eighteen years. When the company relocated, Verna found her calling in hospitality at Forest Ridge Health and Rehab Center, where she worked diligently as a laundry aide for twenty-two years. Her impeccable work ethic was a legacy she lovingly passed on to her children. Verna's personal life was filled with love and devotion. She and her first husband, William "Bill" Carter, lived in California, where they welcomed three daughters—Theresa, Becky, and Suzanna. Verna developed a lifelong love for country music during this time. After returning to Bremerton and parting ways with Bill, she found love again with Billie Eugene Shelby of Brushingknob, Missouri. Her heart was forever full with her family. She is survived by her daughters Theresa Moore and Becky Tatman, both of Bremerton, Washington, and Suzanna Farrar (Jeff) of Omaha, Nebraska. Her legacy continues through her ten grandchildren—Vanessa Allison, Melissa Ringfield, Amanda Meir, Jesse Tatman, Dinae Tatman, Danielle Tatman, Keith Farrar, Jordan Shelby, Billie Shelby, and Marissa Shelby—and sixteen great-grandchildren. Verna is also survived by her sister-in-law Sheila Greenwood, her brother-in-law Boyd Shelby, and numerous nieces and nephews. Verna was predeceased by her first husband Bill Carter in 2018, her second husband Billie Shelby, her son Bill Shelby, and her siblings Frank Wick, Burt Wick, James Wick, Daisy Hale, Wilma Tipton, Josephine Gage, and Charlie Wick. In addition to her love for country music, Verna found joy in reading, putting puzzles together, gardening, and crocheting. Her greatest passion, however, was her family. She lovingly crafted many Afghans for her children and grandchildren, ensuring her warmth surrounded them always. An avid fan of the Seahawks and Mariners, she delighted in collecting Seahawks figurines in her later years. Her loyalty, strength, and dedication were evident in everything she did. Family and friends are invited to celebrate Verna’s life on September 28, 2026, at 2:00 PM at the Lewis Funeral Chapel in Bremerton, Washington. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to a charity of your choice in her memory. Verna Wells will be remembered for her unyielding spirit and the love she so generously shared with those around her. Her legacy of strength and devotion will forever be cherished by her family and friends.