Shelia J Shay

Mrs. Shelia J. Shay, 82, of St. Clair Township, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family on Saturday, August 8, 2026.

She was born December 29, 1943, in Edwardsburg to the late James Herbert and Eva May Freeman, the youngest of three children. She graduated from Edwardsburg High School in 1962, where she was voted Homecoming Queen.

Shelia moved to Port Huron in the fall to attend junior college. While there, she became involved with the Junior Chamber of Commerce and served as president of the Junior Chamber Auxiliary. She later left college and married Dr. E. James Shay in 1963. They shared nearly 56 years of marriage and were blessed with two children, Erwin James II “E.J.” and Jennifer Lynn.

Shelia was a giving person who volunteered her time and supported many charitable organizations throughout her life. She was a member of Colonial Woods Missionary Church.

Shelia and Jim enjoyed traveling, boating, deer hunting and fishing at their cabin in the Upper Peninsula. They spent many winters at their home in Arizona and also enjoyed bowling and both downhill and cross-country skiing. In her later years, she enjoyed traveling with a friend, but especially cherished spending time with her lady friends playing cards and mahjong.

She is survived by her son, Erwin James II “E.J.” Shay; sister, Patricia Wilton; several nieces and nephews; and many wonderful friends. She was preceded in death by her husband, Jim; daughter, Jennifer Lynn; brother, James R. (Marlene) Freeman, of Fort Worth, Texas; brother-in-law, Erwin Wilton, of Fort Gratiot; sister-in-law, Bernadene (Louis) Lohr, of Fort Gratiot; and sister-in-law, Arlisle (Harry) Goodman, of Philadelphia.

Funeral services will be held at 12 noon on Monday, August 17, 2026 in Karrer-Simpson Funeral Home with visitation beginning at 11:00 a.m. The Reverend Phil Whetstone will officiate.

Burial will follow in Kenney Cemetery, Clyde Township.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Ronald McDonald House. To send condolences, visit karrersimpson.com