of West Memphis, AR
September 29, 1978 - January 9, 2025
Shelby McCuiston Ward, a loving mother, sister and daughter, passed away January 9, 2025 at the age of 46. Shelby will always be remembered for her true love of family and friends. Her caring heart and witty sense of humor inspired all who knew her. Shelby was a devoted educator, touching the lives of all the students she taught in the Marion school district. She attended West Memphis Christian School, where she excelled in basketball and cheerleading. Shelby was a graduate of Arkansas State University and a diehard Arkansas Razorback fan. However, her legacy will always be her unending love for her family and friends.
Shelby was preceded in death by her parents, Lloyd McCuiston III and Rosemary Marotti McCuiston; brother, Paxton Marotti and grandparents, Lloyd McCuiston II and Olivia McCuiston and Egbert Holden and Zelma Lois(Bridge man) Gipson.
Shelby leaves behind her loving daughter, Averie Ward; sister, Karsen Driskell; brother, Justin McCuiston; niece, Daisy Driskell; nephews, Colin McCuiston and Ryley McCuiston and former husband of 21 years, Chris Ward.
A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, January 18, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. at Roller Citizens Funeral Home in West Memphis.
We haven’t talked in years but social media kept us 1997 WMCS people connected. I’m praying for your family and send love to everyone who is missing you.
Chris and Averie, our prayers are with you both. Shelby was such a beautiful and loving person to be around. We pray that you will feel God’s peace during this most difficult time.
I am still in shock after hearing the heartbreaking news. I will always cherish the memories made with Shelby.
All of my love and prayers are going out to her friends and family.
Billy Leaptrot
I want you to know I miss you in I loved you with everything in me u been my mom for 21 years . In you had my back when I didn’t know what to do you never judge me you just wanted what was best for me in to make you proud in that’s something I did. I love you a lot my heart don’t even beat the same no more since your gone I tried to pull my self together to say my final goodbye’s but this morning I just can’t sorry you know I don’t do well at funerals in I think it’s best I try to remember you the way you left me. I love you always you with Paxton now . Now you can smile
I am so sorry. Chris and Averie you are part of our family because Shelby was my daughter after her mom died. Shelby was in our life since she was 3 years old. She was amazing. So talented and giving. She was best friends with Georgia and was part of our household all through junior and senior high school. She was beautiful inside and out. I can’t tell you how much our family loves you. We are sad but know Shelby is out of pain and in the arms of God. We miss her, we love her, and will remember her forever. Love, the Hyman Family
My heart is broken and i wish you would have shared with us your issues that made you think you had to leave us! I would have taken you shopping and hallmark candy!! Always love you! Always!
I’m so heartbroken for Shelby and her family. My daughter Jenni and Shelby grew up together, graduated high school & college together. She is heartbroken as well. Jenna Howard will be in my prayers, as she was the one that was worried & went to check on Shelby. So sorry Justin, Carsten, Chris & Averie....Shelby was a precious and kind hearted person.. Janet Sorrell
Sending heartfelt prayers and condolences to all who loved Shelby! I babysat she and Paxton when they were small…May God wrap His arms around her and her family.
Shelby......I love you......I don't know what else to say.
To Shelby's Family - We are heartbroken for your loss. We knew Shelby as a baby and watched her grow up into a beautiful and loving person, always a smile on her face. We can't understand why things happen as they do, but please know that family and friends are there for you. May our Lord Jesus Christ comfort you and give you peace.
Lovingly,
Johnny, Patty, Wes, Ryan & Patrick Jenkins
May the Lord bless all of you in your time of grief. Averie & Chris, I pray for peace & understanding during this difficult time in your lives âœï¸ðŸ’Ÿ
We are so sorry to hear of Shelby passing may u know we cared about her and the family sorrows, God bless you all
May light perpetual shine upon her.
Prayers for the family.
I taught with Shelby at Marion Junior High. She loved her family and her students passionately! Sending up my prayers for her family and friends that you will remember the love you shared with her.
JUSTIN, SO SORRY TO HEAR ABOUT SHELBY! YOU AND ALL THE FAMILY WILL BE IN OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS DAILY!!!
Shelby - always one of the funniest ones in the room. She took the time to check in and care about about what you were up to and how you were doing. A friend that you wouldn't see for 10 years but could pick up right where you left off, with laughter and smiles. All my love to Chris and Averie. You are both loved very much. My sincere condolences.
-Brandon Pugh
I will always remember Shelby as the girl I watched grow up. Such a kind heart. Praying for all May our Lord give you peace and comfort during this difficult time.
Justin and Family- I am terribly sorry for your loss. You all are in my prayers. May God grant you all peace and comfort that only He can provide.
Averie and Chris,
Our hearts are broken at learning of this news. Shelby was and will always be such a shining light to all who knew her. Sending you both much love.
Prayers for Shelby and her family,
Love and respect,
Andy Luttrell