Shelby Jean Ireland Keech

Shelby Jean Ireland Keech, 89, of Lowland, passed away Wednesday, January 28, 2026, at home.

Raised in a farming family, she understood the importance of hard work and dedication from an early age. She spent many days working in the fields, helping raise corn, beans, tobacco, and cotton, and carried those strong work ethics and values with her throughout her life. Mrs. Shelby was a member of Wardens Grove OFWB Church.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Herman and Eula Ireland; husband, Leva R. Keech; brothers, Curtis “Stakes” Ireland, Royce Ireland, Earl Thomas “E.T.” Ireland, Herman “Buster” Ireland, Jr., Floyd Thomas Ireland, and Kenly Robert Ireland; and a special sister, Jean Ireland.

She is survived by her son, Curtis Rice and wife, Marie “Nuggie” and several nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held and announced as weather permits. The services will be held at Wardens Grove Original Free Will Baptist Church with the Rev. Earl Sadler, Jr. officiating. Private interment will be in Lowland Community Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Wardens Grove Original Free Will Baptist Church, c/o Nancy Leary, 3940 Lowland Rd., Lowland, NC 28552.