



Shirley Davis Shelton, born on June 24, 1935, in Virginia, passed away peacefully on August 27, 2025, in Newport News, Virginia, at the age of 90. A beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, Shirley’s life was a tapestry woven with love, laughter, and cherished memories.
Shirley dedicated her life to her family and her work. She found joy in her role as a mother and took pride in her career as an administrative assistant in various medical practices. Her professional journey also included a memorable tenure with the Richmond Braves, where she made lasting friendships and contributed with dedication and enthusiasm.
A true movie enthusiast, Shirley’s passion for cinema led her to the theater several times a week, where she delighted in the magic of film. Her love for shopping was matched only by her joy in taking her grandchildren on shopping adventures, creating treasured memories along the way. Family trips to Nags Head were among her most cherished moments, as she adored the beach and the time spent with loved ones.
Shirley’s vibrant personality shone through in her love for playing cards, particularly poker, where she earned a reputation as a formidable player. She was a trendsetter in her community at Hidenwood, famously dyeing her hair red—a style that many admired and emulated. Her love for beauty extended to her impeccable grooming, and she was known for her signature Chanel perfume.
Music was another source of joy for Shirley, especially when her brother Jim played the piano for the Hidenwood community. Her fondness for these performances highlighted her appreciation for the arts and her deep familial bonds.
Her grandchildren lovingly called her “Woowoo,” a name that became synonymous with warmth and fun. Nothing delighted her more than spending time with them at Woowoo’s pool, ordering pizza, and creating joyful memories. Shirley’s playful spirit was encapsulated in her cherished WOOWOO1 license plate. Together with her late husband, Jack Coleman Shelton, they shared a daily ritual of enjoying Hardee’s biscuits for breakfast, a simple pleasure that brought them happiness.
Shirley was a devoted Christian, finding strength and solace in her faith throughout her life. She is preceded in death by her husbands, Jack Coleman Shelton and Billy Hammond, ex-husband John Thomas Council, and siblings Robert Davis, Tom Center, and Peggy Center.
She leaves behind a loving family who will forever hold her memory dear: her son Daryl Hammond; grandchildren Moriah Goodwyn, Gabby Hammond, and Zack Hammond; and her siblings James Davis, Anne Center Jackson, Mike Center, Ceil Center Rector, Tim Center, Suzanne Center Dynes, and Pat Center.
Shirley’s legacy is one of love, laughter, and an indomitable spirit that touched all who knew her. Her family and friends will continue to celebrate her life and the countless ways she enriched theirs.
Shirley Davis Shelton, born on June 24, 1935, in Virginia, passed away peacefully on August 27, 2025, in Newport News, Virginia, at the age of 90. A beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, Shirley’s life was a tapestry woven with love, laughter, and cherished memories. Shirley dedicated her life to her family and her work.…
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