John Timothy Schelfe

Tim Schelfe, a cherished husband and father, entrepreneur, award winning interior designer, and lifelong Catholic, passed away unexpectedly after a brief illness on June 14, 2026, in Charlotte, North Carolina at 63 years old.

Born on June 14, 1963, in Washington, D.C., Tim’s life was defined by his unwavering love of his family, his faith, his passion for design and love of travel.

Tim graduated from University of Maryland and went on to build an extraordinary career in interior design. A Fellow of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), he held countless leadership roles throughout his career, including serving as Chair of the ASID National Board of Directors. His contributions to the field were widely recognized; he was named the 2025 Designer of Distinction—the highest honor bestowed by ASID—and was celebrated as one of the "50 Designers of 50 Years" in addition to numerous design awards. He created spaces that enriched lives while demonstrating an extraordinary commitment to design excellence. Tim’s entrepreneurial spirit and passion for design left an indelible mark on the industry and inspired colleagues and clients alike.

Beyond his professional achievements, Tim’s greatest pride and joy came from his family. He is survived by his beloved wife of almost 32 years Ruth Anne; his remarkable son and daughter-in-law, Stephen and Gabriella; his cherished grandson Royce; and his treasured daughter Maria. He was so proud of his children and the adults they had become and loved them beyond measure. He also leaves behind his adored sisters Jeanne and Joan, extended family and friends and colleagues, too many to count.

Tim was predeceased by his parents Primo and Marie, as well as his brother-in-law Rich.

A lifelong Catholic, Tim’s faith was a cornerstone of his life. From serving as an altar boy in his youth to participating in Perpetual Adoration for decades, he remained deeply connected to his spiritual roots. His faith guided him through life’s challenges and triumphs alike. He often said how blessed he truly was by the gifts of family and friends that he was given.

Tim will be remembered not only for his unwavering love for his family and his professional accomplishments but also for his genuine joy he brought to those around him (so many dad jokes), love of travel (he was always planning the next trip before the current one ended), entrepreneurial spirit (after “retiring” he launched yet another new design firm as he continued to mentor others), and deep devotion to the people in his life. Those who knew him will forever cherish the memories of a man who brought passion and joy to every aspect of life. He will be forever missed.

A Visitation will be held at Mitchell Funeral Home, 7209 Glenwood Ave, Raleigh, NC 27612, on Monday, June 22, 2026, from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, 2718 Overbrook Dr, Raleigh, NC 27608,on Tuesday, June 23, 2026 at 11:00am. Burial will follow in Raleigh Memorial Park.

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