Ramel Walton Shelf, also known as "Coot" to her family and friends, was born in Winston-Salem, NC on May 17, 1936 to Nathaniel Walton and Rosa Maye Stiff. She passed away peacefully on August 30, 2023, at Peak Resources Assisted Living in Charlotte, NC at the age of 87.

"Coot" was educated in Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Public Schools. She graduated from Atkins High School and then attended NC Agricultural and Technical (A&T) State University. After college, she married her high school sweetheart, Coy Shelf and from this union they had 4 children, Michael, Claig also known as "Scooter", Dino, and Nadine also known as "Squeaky".

Her working career was at Hanes Hosiery as a "Pre-Boarder" until retirement after 25+ years of service. "Coot" was  a lover of all animals, but dogs held a very special place in her heart. Her last 2 dogs, which she affectionately called both "Boopy", were her constant companions. She also loved the western TV channels where she continuously watched old cowboy and western movies and TV series. Anyone who knew her well also knew she loved to go to the casino and her favorite family game was "Pokeno".

"Coot" will be dearly missed by her family and friends, who will forever cherish her memory. She was preceded in death by her parents, Nathaniel and Rosa Walton; her husband, Coy Senior Shelf; and her brother, Nathaniel Walton Jr.

She is survived by her 3 sons, Michael (Portia) Shelf, Claig (Robin) Shelf, and Dino Sheff; 1 daughter, Nadine Shelf;6 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren; and a host of other relatives and friends who all loved and will miss her.

Memorial services will be held at 12noon Friday, September 8, 2023 at the Russell Funeral Home Chapel.  The family visitation will be held from 11:30am until 12noon on Friday at the Chapel.