Shelby Jean Trusty

Shelby Jean Trusty, known affectionately to friends and family as Jean, passed away on December 5, 2024, after a period of extended illness. She was 83 years old. Jean was a beacon of light and love to all who knew her, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and warmth that will be cherished by many.

Born on November 28, 1941, in Florida, Jean was raised in the Ashford/Gordon area of Alabama, where she graduated from Ashford High School. Her roots in the community were deep, and her presence was a constant, comforting fixture. Jean's life was characterized by her unwavering dedication to her family, her work, and her community.

Jean's professional life was marked by a long and distinguished tenure with Dothan City Schools, where she worked for over 38 years. Prior to her educational service, she was employed at Warner's Factory. Throughout her career, Jean's commitment to the welfare and development of countless students earned her the respect and admiration of her colleagues and the community at large.

Family was the cornerstone of Jean's life. She is survived by her loving sons, Louis B. Trusty, III and Charles Wendell (Mitzy) Trusty. Jean's legacy continues through her numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who will carry forward the values and love she instilled in them. Her sisters, Ida Dean (A. Z.) Howell and Katherine Shiver, along with many nieces and nephews, will also hold dear the memory of their beloved Jean. She was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Louis B. Trusty, Jr., her brother, Eldridge “Buddy” Turner, and her sisters, Doris Gilmer, Lois Golden, and Rosa Mae Cherry.

Jean's interests and hobbies reflected her love for life and people. She cherished her Maltese, Snowball, and enjoyed dining out with friends, never missing an opportunity to socialize and share a laugh. Jean's outgoing nature was infectious; she never met a stranger and made friends wherever she went.

A celebration of Jean's life will be held at 1 pm on Wednesday, December 11, 2024, at Sunset Funeral Home Chapel. The service will be officiated by Rev. John Howell and Chaplain Kevin Kelly, honoring a life well-lived and dearly loved. Jean will be laid to rest at Memory Hill Cemetery, where she will be surrounded by the community she so cherished. Friends and family are invited to gather and share memories of Jean during a visitation on Tuesday evening from 5-7 pm at the funeral home.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Gentiva Hospice for their love and compassion during Jean's final days. Special thanks go to Bridgette Curry, Tiffany Clardy, Kevin Kelly, and JoAnne Decker, whose care and support were a source of comfort to Jean and her family.

Jean Trusty will be remembered as a loving, thoughtful, and friendly soul. Her generous spirit and unwavering kindness touched the lives of all who were fortunate enough to know her. As we bid farewell to Jean, we celebrate the joy she brought into our lives and the indelible mark she left on the hearts of her family, friends, and community. Her memory will be treasured forever as a reminder of the profound impact one life can have on so many.