Debra Elaine Shelby, who left this world at the age of 73, passed away peacefully on May 26, 2026. She was born on July 27, 1952, in Galveston, TX, to the late Minnie Dee Carter and Ocie Lee. Debra dedicated her life to Jesus Christ at a young age at Jerusalem Baptist Church.

Debra graduated from Ball High School, class of 1970, as a licensed cosmetologist and later worked faithfully for 17 years at Southern Union Gas Company. She also served in administrative roles at Heritage Christian Academy and La Marque Independent School District before retiring. During this time, she was ordained at First Apostolic Pentecostal Church under the late Bishop Lewis Sr. She later attended Jesus Is Lord Church under the leadership of the late Pastor Virginia Wright and Speak the Word of Faith, where she served under Pastors Samuel and Sylvia Alvarado.

Preceded in death by her parents and sisters, Jean Jackson and Joyce Davenport, survivors include family who cherished and loved her; daughters  Tammy Shelby, Gina Wafer, son-in-law, Hershel Wafer, and Georgette Daniels; grandchildren, Tyler Carter, Jadyn Carter-Maupin, and Jaxson Daniels; sisters, Donaldleen King and Paula Hameed; and a host of nieces, nephews and dear friends who loved her deeply.

Memorial services are 11:00am Monday, June1, 2026, at Carnes Brothers Funeral Home, Pastor Carlton Wade officiating.