THE SHELBY INDEPENDENT

Linda Ann White Edwards, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away on February 15, 2026, in her hometown of Shelby, North Carolina, where she was born on May 8, 1944. Her life was a beautiful tapestry woven with love, faith, and unwavering devotion to her family and friends. Married for an enduring 62 years to her cherished husband, John Thomas Edwards Jr., Linda's love story was one that inspired many. Together, they built a foundation of love that would sup

Billy Joe Bryant, a dedicated general contractor, beloved family man, and strong believer in Jesus Christ, passed away on February 15, 2026, at the age of 48 in Spartanburg County, South Carolina. Born on December 9, 1977, in Catawba County, North Carolina, Billy grew up with a passion for construction, establishing a successful career as a general contractor, where he was known for his unwavering commitment to quality and integrity. Billy is survived by his loving girlfriend

Shirley Maydean Hutchins Bright, born in Rutherford County, North Carolina, on April 28, 1939, peacefully departed this life on February 14, 2026, at White Oak Manor in Shelby, NC. She was a remarkable woman whose warmth and kindness touched the lives of everyone she met. Shirley lived a life full of love, devotion, and the simple joys of nature. Her passion for gardening blossomed into a cherished hobby, filling her home with the vibrant colors of flowers and the soothing so

Bobbie Dean Ingle, 93, a cherished member of the Shelby community and devoted family man, departed this life on Feb. 4, 2026, in his beloved hometown of Shelby, North Carolina. Born on July 17, 1932, Bobbie's life was a testament to service, dedication, and love. His formative years in Shelby shaped a character marked by unwavering commitment to both his nation and his community. Bobbie's distinguished military service in the United States Navy, where he proudly served aboard

Johnnie Lavone Greene, 83, of Shelby, NC, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Friday, Jan. 2, 2026. Johnnie is survived by her sister, Tena Greene Murray and husband Robert of Shelby, NC. Born June 23, 1942, in Cleveland County, NC, Johnnie was the daughter of the late Carrie Evelyn Greene, a niece, Kimberly Smith of Pickens, SC, a nephew, Jeff Murray and wife Lisa of Mooresboro, NC, and numerous great nieces and nephews. Johnnie was a loving sister and friend to all. She

SHELBY -  After an exceptional, trailblazing life spanning over a century, Dorothy (“Dot”) Mulder Roark, age 101, passed away at home on Christmas Day – December 25, 2025. Born in Holland, Michigan, on December 19, 1924, she was the daughter of the late Peter and Hattie (Brummel) Mulder. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Cathryn Mulder, and her brothers Art, Earl, Ray, Elmer, and Harold Mulder. She was also predeceased by her husband of 58 y

Mrs. Sarah Elizabeth Tallent Hafer, 89, of Shelby, NC, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Sunday, Nov. 9, 2025. She is survived by her husband, Roe Lemmuel Hafer of the home, her children, Tim Tallent and wife Teresa of Shelby, NC, four grandchildren, Ansley Tallent of Raleigh, NC, Matthew Tallent of Asheville, NC, Katelyn Tallent of Raleigh, NC, and Garrett Tallent and wife Emma of Italy, two great grandchildren, Peter Michael Tallent and Walden Tallent, and two treasure

Ralph Grady Toney, 84, a devoted family man and respected member of the community, passed away peacefully at his residence on Nov. 4, 2025.