Shelly Lyn Zimmerman

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Shelly Lyn Zimmerman (Smith), who departed this life on Wednesday, July 30th, 2025, at the age of 51. She passed peacefully, surrounded by her loving family, in North Kansas City, Missouri.

Shelly was born on January 14th, 1974, in Mountain Home, Arkansas, to Sandra Sommer and Darrell Smith. She was raised in Birmingham, Missouri, and graduated from Winnetonka High School in 1992. Following high school, Shelly dedicated herself to a career as a Pharmacy Technician, faithfully serving her community for over 25 years.

Known for her immense heart and magnetic personality, Shelly never met a stranger. She had a rare gift for connecting with people—bringing joy through her laughter, warmth, and the ability to make others feel truly seen and loved. A natural social butterfly, Shelly’s presence lit up every room she entered.

Shelly is survived by the love of her life and soulmate, Mark Zimmerman. The two shared a deep and devoted bond, publicly proclaiming their love in marriage on October 2nd, 2021.

She was a devoted and extraordinary mother to her two beloved children, Shealyn Neris (30) and Randall Jackson Jr. (26). She embraced motherhood with unwavering love, warmth, and fierce dedication. Shelly was her children’s biggest cheerleader—encouraging Shealyn through years of tennis and standing proudly beside Randall as he pursued his passion for theatre and the arts. Her nurturing spirit and constant support shaped their lives in countless beautiful ways.

Some of Shealyn and Randall’s most cherished memories with their mother include weekend trips to the City Market, playing board games together before and after dinner, and experiencing her remarkable ability to turn any moment into one filled with laughter and joy. Shelly had a unique gift for making fun and connection part of everyday life—often using humor and playfulness as her own form of medicine to help her family navigate even the toughest times.

Shelly was preceded in death by her grandparents H.A. and Alma Rhoads, Harley and Edith Smith, Sam, and Edyth DeArmon, Frank and Pat Sommer, and her father, Darrell Smith.

She is survived by her loving husband, Mark Zimmerman, and their loyal beagle companion, Mayday. She also leaves behind her children: Shealyn Neris (Kelvin) and Randall Jackson Jr.; her mother- and father-in-law, Nancy, and L.J. Zimmerman; her sister-in-law, Julie Zimmerman; and her stepchildren, Abby Zimmerman and Donald Zimmerman. Shelly was a proud and devoted grandmother to Lyanna, Luna, and Dominic Neris, as well as Anthony Schenelle.

She is also survived by her mother, Sandra (Jeff) Sommer, and her stepfather, Kenny (Rita) Young. Her siblings include: Warren (Kay) Young, Christina Young, Carrie (Tom) Patrick, Krista Wilson, Ryan (Samantha) Young, James Young, Kalyn Young, Nikki (Justin) Combs, and Cody (Kayla) Smith.

She also leaves behind beloved nieces and nephews, including Samantha Magee, Kadence (Gavin) Robertson, Kamry Pike, Kenna Pike, Michael Bramble, Zander Young, and Parker Wilson.

In addition, Shelly is survived by dozens of aunts, uncles, cousins, and extended family members who will forever hold her memory in their hearts.

A memorial service to honor Shelly Zimmerman will be held at Newcomer’s White Chapel Funeral Home, found at 6600 Northeast Antioch Road, Gladstone, Missouri 64119. Visitation will begin at 10:30 AM, followed by the funeral service at 11:30 AM.

A memorial reception will be held at Birmingham Town Hall, located at 510 Spartley Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64161, at 2:00 PM.

Shelly’s life was a radiant example of love, compassion, and strength. She leaves behind a legacy of laughter, deep connection, and unwavering care for others. Though she will be dearly missed, the warmth she shared lives on in all who knew and loved her.