Shelby Annette Selden Read

On Saturday, October 17, 2026, God called Shelby Selden Read home to His kingdom. 

Shelby Annette Selden Read was born July 10, 1960 in Bedford, Virginia. She was preceded in death by her mother, Maxine Olivia Selden; her father, Harold Robert “Bob” Selden; her maternal grandmother, Mabel Woolfolk Burrell; and her paternal grandparents, Alice and George Selden Sr.

 Shelby was educated in the Bedford County School System and graduated one year early from Liberty High School in 1977, where she participated in the Drill Team. She worked in the Bedford County School system with children exhibiting special needs until she ultimately returned to Liberty High School, where she worked as the Assistant Librarian. In the 1990s, Shelby served the Bedford community by faithfully volunteering with Bedford Life Saving Crew. 

Shelby was a doting grandmother (“GiGi”) to her granddaughter, Annalise, who was the highlight of her last decade. In addition to spending time with Annalise, Shelby enjoyed visiting the beach (particularly Myrtle Beach, SC), along with Smith Mountain Lake. She was an avid thrifter, often found perusing the aisles of her local Goodwill stores. Shelby had a deep appreciation for Mustangs, and she belonged to the Hill City Mustang Cruisers, a Mustang enthusiast group in the early 2000s. Shelby believed in the power of friendship and maintained a plethora of friends throughout her life. 

Left to cherish her memories are Shelby’s daughter, Amber Blair of Charlottesville, VA; Shelby’s granddaughter, Annalise Blair of Charlottesville, VA; Shelby’s sister, Robin Selden Braxton (Steve) of Bedford, VA; her nieces, Tessia Smith (Antoine) and Chelsey King (Chancey Jr.) of Fairfax, VA; her aunt, Iris “Nita” Nash (James) of Forest, VA; her uncle, John Lewis Thomasson of Stewartsville, VA; her cherished Godson, Charles “Chucky” Hilson of Lynchburg, VA; and her close friend, Chip Harris of Bedford, VA. 

Additionally, Shelby leaves behind a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends to remember her fondly. She will be deeply missed by those who knew and loved her. 

A celebration of life will be held on Shelby’s behalf on Saturday, October 24, 2026 at 2:00 pm, at Tharp Funeral Home, Bedford Chapel (320 N. Bridge St., Bedford, VA 24523). Visitation will begin an hour prior at 1:00 pm. The family appreciates each call, text, prayer, and act of kindness shown during this time.

Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Bedford is assisting the family.