Shelby "Jean"

Eley

Shelby “Jean” Eley, born Shelby Jean Wiggins on October 22, 1945, in Alabama, passed away peacefully on November 14, 2026, in Perkinston, Mississippi. She was a loving and kindhearted woman whose life was marked by selflessness, care for others, and deep devotion to her family.

Jean was a woman who wore many hats throughout her lifetime. She worked as a janitor, painter, stacker at the mill, farmer, cook, cashier, cafeteria worker, and caregiver. In each role, she brought a strong work ethic and a giving spirit, reflecting the nurturing and loving nature that so many knew so well. She was always willing to help, always caring, and always giving of herself to those around her.

She found joy in simple pleasures and happy moments. Jean loved to play bingo and especially enjoyed the penny machines at the casino. More than anything, she loved spending time with her family, who were the center of her life and her proudest accomplishment. To her grandchildren, she was lovingly known as MawMaw, a name that carried warmth, comfort, and treasured memories.

Jean leaves behind a family who will carry her love with them always. She is survived by her sons, William Kenneth “Ken” Eley, Jr. and Tammy of Saucier, MS, Jeffery "Lynn" Eley, Sr. and Lucy of McHenry, MS; her daughters, Judith “Denise” Parker and Michael Parker of Perkinston, MS, and Kelli Annette McGee of Perkinston, MS; her grandchildren, Brandi (Chris) Cobb, Jeff (Emily) Eley, Zach (Samantha) Eley, Jason (Lacy) Parker, Dustin (Summer) Parker, JJ McGee, Sesli (Julie) Butler, and Katie (Brandon) McGee ; great grandchildren: Tyler, Tubby, Tyce, Tailyn, Levi, Mariah, Skylar, Ridge, Amelia, Zander, Cole, Collin, Gracelee and Brycen;  her sister, Doris Conway; and her lifelong friend, Judy Cunningham. Each of them was blessed by Jean’s steady love, generous heart, and the special way she made family feel like the most important thing in the world.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 35 years William kenneth "Buddy" Eley; her father and mother, Joe and Florence Wiggins; her brothers, Estle, Horace, Marvin, Guy, and Elmer Wiggins; her sister, Jeanette Pate; and her granddaughter, Megan Eley. Their memories remained a part of her life and story, and she now rests with those who went before her.

Jean will be remembered for her loving heart, her caring ways, and the joy she found in being with those she loved most. Her family, her laughter, and the many lives she touched will remain her lasting legacy.

The family would like to thank the caretakers for taking care of their mom in her final days.

Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation on November 17, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. at Trinity Funeral Services McHenry, 319 U.S. 49, McHenry, MS 39561. The funeral service will follow there at 2:00 p.m. A graveside service will be held at 3:30 p.m. at Perryville Baptist Church (McHenry), 58 Campground Road, McHenry, MS 39561.

Trinity Funeral Services is honored to serve the Eley family and ask that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers in your thoughts and prayers.