CHRISTOPHER – James Russell Shelby, 79, of Christopher, passed away on Monday, March 2, 2026, at the Marion VA Medical Center.

He was born on December 24, 1946, in Mt Vernon, IL, to Jesse James and Nona Elva (Russell) Shelby.

He is survived by his daughters, Malinda (Wayne Harris) Pierce of Du Quoin, Cindy (Richard) Bradford of Christopher and Crystal Tarr of Christopher; grandchildren, Michael Scroggins, Ashley Bradford, Trevor Tarr, Ritchie (Angie) Bradford and Jonathan (Kaitlin Swain) Pierce; four great-grandchildren; one brother, Dennis (Carrie) Estes; one niece, Brandi Estes; and three nephews, Jason Estes, Adam Estes and Josh Estes.

He was a veteran of the United States Army and was a police officer.

His wishes were to be cremated.

For more information go to our website www.gilbertfuneralhomes.com.