Darrell was a Houston Fire Fighter for 35 years and retired in 2004 to take care of his beloved mother. Darrell's motto was "You light 'em, we fight 'em". During his 35 years of service, he saved many lives. He looked forward to going to work each and every day and he made many life-long friends. He was so very proud of serving Engine 31 and the true bond of the Fire Fighter Brotherhood. Whether you knew Darrell a lifetime or just met him, you were a friend. And he lived with the light of his life, Janet.
Darrell was a member of the Masonic Brotherhood of Lindale Park Lodge for the last 45 years and was very proud to follow in his father's footsteps in the Masonic Brotherhood.
It can be said, Darrell's life line was his family and it gave him purpose. His greatest joy was his wife, children and grandchildren. He loved them dearly. He looked forward to his annual Frio River trips, attending baseball games, swimming lessons, dance recitals and all that he could. He also enjoyed holiday celebrations with his family. Darrell was known to be a good cook and had a flare for re-creating his mother's dressing every Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Left to mourn his passing, his soul-mate and wife of 49 years, Janet Shely, daughters; Shelli Shely and Denise Shely, son; Ryan Shely and wife Susan, grandchildren; Taylor, Hayden, Brooklyn and Aspen Shely, sister; Sharron Wilburn and husband Brandt, nephews; Shane Wilburn and Eric Wilburn, sister-in-law; Sharron Raines and husband Roger, numerous cousins and friends.
Darrell Ray Shely was born July 5, 1948 in San Antonio, Texas and earned his heavenly wings on March 23, 2018 in The Woodlands, Texas. Darrell was preceded in death by his parents; Betty Sue Shely and Ule Ray Shely and his brother; Wayne Leslie Shely.
In addition to his priority of family, Darrell loved sports. He was an avid Astro's fan and was able to witness a World Series Championship brought home to Houston and he couldn't wait for the 2018 season to start. He was a die-hard Texas Longhorn fan, his heart belonged to Texas. He enjoyed watching his revered Longhorns in any type of individual or team competition.
Graveside services will be held Tuesday, March 27, 2018, 1:30 p.m. at Brookside Memorial Park, 13747 Eastex Freeway, Houston, Texas 77039.
Rest in Peace and know that some day we will all be together again.
Hook 'em Horns!
