Ronald G. Shelby, 64, of Kempton, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, leaving behind a legacy defined by devotion to family, quiet strength, and a love for life’s simple pleasures. Born on October 12, 1961, in Pontiac, Ron was the son of the late Irvin and Birdell Larson Shelby and was raised with values that guided him throughout his life.

On January 19, 1991, Ron married the love of his life, Rachel Koch, in Cullom. Together they built a family grounded in love and resilience. Rachel survives, along with their three daughters, Lindsey (Casey) Moore, Brooke (James Hall) Shelby, and Danielle (Jeff) Klaman. Ron was a proud grandfather to eight grandchildren—Blayke, Bennett, Carson, Grayson, Iverson, Stetson, Axell, and Remi—who were the true joy of his life.

Ron is also survived by two brothers, Richard (Lois) Shelby and Gary (Joann) Shelby; four sisters, Betty (Chuck) Splear, Pauline Turner, Kay Groskreutz, and Connie Shelby; and many nieces and nephews who will miss his steady presence. He was preceded in death by his parents, his daughter Jessica Shelby, his son Cody Shelby, and six brothers, Howard, Charles, Paul, Roger, Larry, and Dale Shelby.

A graduate of Cullom schools, Ron spent many years working as a factory employee at the former Nichols Homeshield. Outside of work, he found happiness fishing, doing yardwork, mowing, and “tinkering around.” He enjoyed classic westerns on television and was a loyal Chicago Bears fan. Still, nothing compared to the time he cherished with his children and grandchildren.