Shelley Newman Meyer

Shelley Newman Meyer, age 72, of Wharton, Texas, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 20, 2025.

Shelley was born and raised in Kenedy, Texas, by her beloved parents, Adlin Fae and Shell “Bubba” Newman. She cherished her childhood in Kenedy and often reminisced about the joy of simpler times — enjoying treats at the Ken Kream, sharing steaks with her father at Barth’s Restaurant, or just cruising the roads of Karnes County with friends.

Shelley graduated from Kenedy High School in 1971 and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Education from Texas A&M University. With a heart for knowledge and a gift for teaching, she dedicated 35 years to educating young minds in History and English at Refugio ISD, Boling ISD, and Wharton ISD. She was driven by a deep passion for teaching and the genuine love she had for her students. Nothing brought her more joy later in life than seeing former students out in the community, catching up and hearing about their lives.

Shelley was an avid reader and a lifelong lover of history, finding joy in the stories of the past and sharing them with others. In her free time, she enjoyed cross-stitching, sewing, and crocheting. She took pride in crafting handmade clothing — and even the occasional costume — for her daughters, and lovingly stitched blankets and keepsakes for her grandchildren. She had a particular fondness for musicals and photography, always ready to capture a moment or hum a familiar tune.

She will be remembered for her warmth, her wit, and the quiet strength with which she supported her family and friends. Shelley’s legacy lives on through the lives she touched — as a sister, wife, mother, grandmother, teacher, and friend.

Shelley is survived by her sister, Charlee Newman; her husband, John Meyer; her daughters, Johnna Meyer and Leslie Cook; and her grandchildren, Jack, Molly, Connor, and Callan.

A celebration of Shelley’s life will be held on Wednesday, June 11 at 10:30 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church of Wharton, 1717 Pioneer Avenue. All who knew and loved her are welcome to gather in remembrance, to share stories, and to honor the beautiful life she lived.

Funeral Services are under the direction of Wharton Funeral Home. Condolences may be left at whartonfuneralhome.com.