Tyler Gilbert Shely Jr., lovingly known as Bud, passed away on December 28, 2024. He was predeceased by his son, Ivan Del Shely, in 2014, his parents, Tyler Gilbert Shely and Sally Crook Shely, and his sister, Effie Dee Johnston (Ron). Bud leaves behind his devoted wife of 63 years, Phyllis Ann Shely; their son, Tyler Gilbert Shely III (Laura); daughter, Eugenia Burton (Michael), and daughter-in-law, April Shely. He is also survived by his seven cherished grandchildren: Luke Shely, Wyatt Shely (Adele), Glenn Burton (Lauren), Ty Burton, Madison Ruth (Justin), Weston Shely, and Lauren Shely; his sisters, Sarah Evelyn Matherly, Dixie Beasley (Tony), Oneta Brandenburg, and many nieces and nephews.

Bud dedicated his professional life to education, sharing his passion for math as a teacher at Burgin High School in Kentucky, and later serving as a teacher and principal at Immokalee High School in Florida, before becoming the principal at Pikeville High School in Kentucky.

Throughout the years, Bud and Phyllis have been active members of various churches, contributing to communities wherever they lived, including Shawnee Run Baptist in Burgin, KY; First Baptist in Immokalee; Pikeville Baptist in Pikeville, KY; Graefenburg Baptist in Waddy, KY; and First Baptist Church in LaBelle, FL.

Bud, Daddy, Papa—will always be remembered for his deep love for his family, his sense of humor, and his joy in singing, storytelling, and laughter. We are forever grateful for the life you lived and the Christian values you instilled in us.

*In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to First Baptist Church of LaBelle, Graefenburg Baptist Church in Waddy KY, or Hope Hospice of Lehigh Acres.