Shelby Jean Lovelace Gosa's Obituary
Shelby Jean Lovelace Gosa, 81, of Mississippi, passed away peacefully in her home on December 8, 2025. Born May 21, 1944, to James and Eloise Lovelace, Shelby, affectionately known as JEAN by her loved ones, was a beacon of kindness and a pillar in her community.
Shelby was preceded in death by her son, Jimmy Dale Gosa; her parents, James and Eloise Lovelace; her sisters, Bonnie Sue, Elisabeth Ann, Fabian Ruth; and her brother, Bobby Hugh. She is survived by her devoted husband of 63 years, James Paul Gosa; her loving daughters, Katy McKenney and Sandra Stradley; her cherished grandchildren, Judylynn, Phillip, Joseph, Michael, Jesscia, Alexis; as well as 12 great and 2 great- great grandchildren.
Before marring James Gosa, Shelby had the ambition to become an accountant. However, her life took a different turn as she chose to dedicate herself to her family, becoming a homemaker. She was a faithful and loving wife, raising a family of three with grace and devotion. She remained very involved with her church, where she baked cookies and shared her love for God.
Shelby has a passion for embroidery, creating beautiful quilts that she generously shared with family and friends. She also enjoyed painting by numbers, puzzles, and sewing. She found joy in the simplicity of nature, particularly in feeding the birds, with a special fondness for Cardinals.
A woman of strong character, Shelby was kind, true to her word, and very opinionated, but always in a good- hearted way. She would help in any way she could, never turning away from someone in need and always having room at her table for anyone. She loved spending time with her family, but her grandchildren were her utmost joy.
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