Monday, April 13, 2026 10:43 am

Shirley Steelman, age 90, of Shelby, passed away on Monday, April 6, 2026, surrounded by her family. She was born on September 5, 1935 in the Yadkin County area to Jennie Wooten Steelman and John Henderson Steelman. Shirley was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. She was a longstanding member of Westview Baptist Church.

After years of service with Fasco Industries, Shirley retired early to be at home with Aaron after his retirement due to health issues. After retiring, she and Aaron bought their dream vacation home in Surfside Beach and divided their time between the beach and Shelby for many years. She enjoyed walking her sweet dog Riley to the ocean everyday and sitting at the boardwalk, watching the waves while reading the newspaper. Shirley loved her newspaper, and reading books. She often completed two or three books weekly. The library was one of her favorite places. Shirley made sure her girls had a library card early and that they visited often. Those who knew her will remember her smile, her wonderful hugs, and her piercing blue eyes.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 60 years, Aaron Steelman; and her four siblings.

She is survived by her children, Kathy Everett (Wayne), Denise Hamrick (Roland), all of Shelby, and Renee Steelman, of Murrells Inlet, SC; grandchildren, Rebecca Stroud, Erin Silver (Justin), Jenny Ethington, and Jake Hamrick; great-grandchildren, Jessi James, Finley Ethington, and Alden Ethington.

The family would like to thank Jackie and the staff at Terra Bella Assisted Living for their excellent care and especially Renota, Macie, and Marie for their love and devotion. We consider you part of our family. We also thank Hospice and Lindsey, mom's wonderful nurse, for helping us during a difficult time with such care and grace.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 am on Thursday, April 16, 2026 in the Cleveland Memorial Park with Dr. Rick Bowling officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Westview Baptist Church, 500 Melody Lane, Shelby, NC 28152, or to Hospice of Cleveland County.

Online condolences can be made at www.cecilmburtonfuneralhome.com.

Cecil M. Burton Funeral Home and Crematory is honored to serve the family.