In Loving Memory of Etta L. Shelby

Sunrise: May 14, 1940 -Sunset: February 23, 2026

Visitation - 10:00 a.m.

Celebration of Life - 11:00 a.m.

Friday, March 13, 2026

St. Paul Baptist Church

6419 Marlboro Pike

District Heights, MD 20745

Interment: Heritage Memorial Cemetery

On February 23, 2026, God dispatched his angels from heaven and gently touched the brow of our loved one, saying it was time to come home.

Etta Luvenia Shelby was born on May 14, 1940, in Westmoreland County, Virginia to the late Charles Ashton and Julia Edna Ashton. She received her education in Westmoreland County, Virginia and graduated from A.T. Johnson High School.

Etta was known for her calm spirit, gentle nature and soft-spoken personality. In her spare time, she enjoyed reading and working crossword puzzles, finding peace and enjoyment in life's quiet moments. At an early age, she accepted Christ as her Savior and joined Morning Star Baptist Church in Zacata, Virginia.

Etta later moved to Washington, DC where she married Willie (Bill) Shelby. She was employed with the United States Department of Treasury for many years and faithfully served until her retirement in December 2000.

She leaves to cherish: one daughter, Anjanette Shelby; one devoted grandson, Abbud Smith, whom she thought the world of; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her sisters, Julia Pratt, Gertrude Smith and Laura Smith and her brother's Charles Ashton and Theodore Ashton.

Sister Etta United with St Paul Church in 2000 and remained faithful and dedicated to the end.

Etta's gentle spirit, loving heart and quiet strength will always be remembered by those who knew her.