Obituary - Shelby "Shag" Lou Carlyle

Shelby Lou Carlyle, affectionately known as "Shag," passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 17, 2024, at the age of 87. A lifelong resident of Kinston, NC, Shag was a devoted family man whose greatest joy came from spending time with his loved ones. The son of Wheeler and Kathleen Carlyle, also Kinston natives, Shag carried on the family’s legacy of commitment to the community. As a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Shag’s dedication to his family will be forever cherished by those who knew him.

Shag dedicated 33 years of his career to DuPont, where he was a respected and admired colleague. He also proudly served in the Army Reserves, demonstrating the same sense of duty and commitment that he carried throughout his life. Outside of work, he made a lasting impact in his community as the former Vice President of Eastern North Carolina Babe Ruth Baseball and through his years of coaching Little League baseball, where he taught young athletes the values of teamwork and sportsmanship. His lifelong passion for foxhunting brought him great joy, as he cherished the camaraderie of fellow hunters and raised hounds that were highly sought after across eastern North Carolina.

In addition to his work and hobbies, Shag had a talent for fixing nearly anything, always solving problems and being the first to lend a hand whenever something needed repairing. He also enjoyed catching up with his buddies at the Captain’s Corner, where his warmth, humor, and easy-going nature made him a beloved friend. His compassion and willingness to help others will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.

Shag was deeply committed to his faith in Christ. He was a member of Spilman Memorial Baptist Church in Kinston, where he served as a deacon for many years. His faith guided him throughout his life and was the inspiration for his service to his church and community.

Shag is survived by his devoted wife of 66 years, Betty Jean, his cherished son, Dr. Richard Carlyle, daughters-in-law, Debra Carlyle Bright and Allison Carlyle, and his treasured grandchildren: Blake Carlyle, Heather Carlyle, Caroline Henderson, Cameron Carlyle, and Cullen Carlyle. He was also blessed with three great-grandchildren: Noah Carlyle, Preston Carlyle, and Paxton Carlyle, all of whom knew him lovingly as "AuPa."

In addition to his parents, Shag was preceded in death by his beloved son, Jeffrey Carlyle, and brother Brian Coy Carlyle.

Shag’s love and legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. As a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, he will be deeply missed by his family and loved ones.

Funeral services will be conducted Monday, October 21, 2024, at 1:00 pm at Spilman Memorial Baptist Church. The family will receive friends from 3:00 to 5:00 pm Sunday, October 20, 2024, at Edwards Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in his honor be made to Spilman Memorial Baptist Church in Kinston.

Arrangements made by Edwards Funeral Home & Cremations. Online condolences may be expressed at www.edwardsfhc.com.