It is with deep sadness that the Shealey family of Roanoke, announce the passing from this life of their beloved mother, grandmother, and aunt, Ms. Marecia Shealey, 74, a resident of 1725 Highway 431. Ms. Shealey transitioned from this life on Wednesday, March 9, 2022, at West Georgia Hospice.

The Life and Legacy Of Marecia Shealey

Marecia Shealey could best be described as a social butterfly.  She was the first of three precious gifts bestowed upon her parents, the late Agil Lawrence Shealey, and Lillian Varner Shealey.  Born in Roanoke on December 21, 1947, she joined Bethel United Methodist Church, where — as she grew into adulthood — she served by playing piano for the church. As she grew in her christian walk, she joined the choir, and served in many other areas. Marecia graduated from the historic Randolph County Training School. After high school, she followed in her mother's footsteps, attending the beloved HBCU, Tuskegee Institute. She later returned home to Randolph County where she was privileged to teach for a period of time for Randolph County Schools.

Marecia later moved into the garment manufacturing industry, joining Roanoke Fashions, Fotomat, and later Terry Manufacturing Company, where she worked as Human Resources Manager. In later years, she would eventually carry these H-R skills to a new position at Wedowee Hospital, where she made many new friends. In all, Marecia devoted more than 40 years, working in the field of Human Resources Management. She took pride in her skills as a Human Resources Manager, and was appreciated for performing her job well.

Marecia was probably best known for her "Gift of Gabb", infectious smile, and outgoing — pleasing personality that drew people to her from all walks of life.  A fun-loving, family-centered person, she was an awesome mother, grandmother sister and aunt. She had a way with children that was magical; and knew what to do to spark their interest in learning new things. And no bid whist player could ask for a better partner.  She could "talk trash" at the card table, with the best of them. She was a gifted seamstress, and an all-around exceptional person.  We who knew and loved her best will cling tightly to our vivid memories of her melodic duets performed with her mother at Bethel; the Bangorian Social Club meetings and fabulous social events she inspired; Mary Kay parties; and all manner of goodness that flowed from her.    

God blessed Marecia to reach that biblically defined life-span of "three score years and ten"; and a few years beyond. Yet, while the passage of time took it's toll, she remained young at heart.  Although we could see time's ravages on her physically, her heart NEVER grew old; even as she surrendered to the inevitable call homeward on Wednesday, March 9, she retained her youthful spirit...that which drew people to her and made her who she was.       

Our heartfelt prayers and deepest sympathy are extended to her daughter, Jamesia (Lawrence) Trammell; grandchildren: Jillian Rabb, Micheal (Carlie) Rabb, and Willie Trammell II; great-grandchild: Damien Rabb; brother, Julius Shealey; sister, Amy (James) Rowland; sister-in-law, JeTawn Shealey; aunt, Countess Chapman; nephew: Tony Shealey; nieces: April Rowland, Fallon Shealey, Ashley Rowland, and Shanan Shealey; great-nieces: Alijah Howard, Pearson Bentley, Taryn Smith, and Taylor Smith; great-nephew, Avan Howard; and finally a host of beloved cousins and friends.

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