Shelley was born on December 8, 1960 in Columbia, SC to Marvin Eugene and Mary Rowell Mayer. After graduating from T.C. Roberson High School in 1978, Shelley attended the University of North Carolina Asheville. She moved to Atlanta, GA in 1987 where she started her family with Andrew Nelson. Shelley taught preschool and art at Shallowford Presbyterian School and Greater Atlanta Christian School. She dedicated her life to enriching the lives of children, teaching hundreds in her 20 plus years in the classroom.
Shelley is survived by her three dearly loved children, Jane Nelson Van Deventer (husband, Eric), Anna Catherine Nelson and Andrew Mayer “Buddy” Nelson, and her granddaughter Mary Sue Van Deventer. She is also survived by her father, Eugene of Summerville, SC, brother Matthew Eric Mayer (wife, Nancy) of Newberry, SC and sister Heather Page Mayer of Summerville, SC. She was predeceased by her mother Mary “Marty” Mayer and sister Melanie Jean Mayer.
Shelley loved spending time with her family, devoted to her children entirely. Her creative spirit, tenacious heart and radiant smile captivated everyone who had the chance to know her. She embodied a steadfast spirit of strength, hope and humor, even while experiencing years of suffering from cancer. She left an indelible mark on her loved ones, and she will be profoundly missed.
Shelley’s life will be celebrated at a memorial mass on Friday, February 28, 2025 at 10 a.m. at the Cathedral of Christ the King, 2699 Peachtree Road NE Atlanta, GA 30305. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Shelley’s name to Christ the King Preschool at Second-Ponce, 2715 Peachtree Rd Atlanta, GA 30305.
