Etta Lea Shell

On Sunday, May 2nd, 2021, Etta Lea Shell, loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, peacefully passed away at the age of 104, with her daughter Jackie by her side.

Born October 26, 1916, to Myrtle and George Kelley, the second of nine children, along the Colorado River in Coleman Co. TX. Etta married “the most handsome man [she] ever laid eyes on”, Herbert Shell in 1936 and the couple was blessed with their only child, a daughter they named Jackie, in 1937. Etta, or Tootsie as she was known to those closest to her, lived her life simply, dedicated to her family and her faith. Her legacy can be seen in the passions she passed on to her family. In her granddaughter’s garden, her great-granddaughter’s kitchen, and her family’s dedication to one another. Tootsie’s impact on her loved ones will reverberate through many generations to come.

Preceded in death by her husband Herbert, parents Myrtle & George, and seven of her siblings. Etta is survived by her younger brother Winford, daughter Jackie Long, son-in-law Paul Long, grandchildren David & Taunya Long, Lori Long, and Kristi Long, as well as great-granddaughter Ashley Germaine.

Memorial service will be held on Thursday, May 6th 2021 at 10:00 am at Sunrise Baptist Church in Kerrville, TX, with a Family-Only graveside service to follow at the Blanco Cemetery in Blanco, TX.  While Tootsie loved to be surrounded by anything that bloomed, the family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to your preferred organization in her honor.

In typical Tootsie fashion, she will be ready and waiting with a pitcher of sweet tea when we meet her at the Pearly Gates. 

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