Delbert Junior Shy, 79, of Huntington, West Virginia, passed away unexpectedly at home on March 22, 2026. A believer in Jesus Christ, he is now at home with his Savior.
He was born November 2, 1946, in Prichard, West Virginia, a son of the late Delbert Sr. and Sadie Gilkerson Shy, and the youngest of 10 children.
After graduating from Buffalo High School, Deb began working at Armco Steel and was a proud member of United Steelworkers Local 1865, where he served as an elected union representative. He later became a Staff Representative for the International United Steelworkers, advocating for nurses and healthcare workers throughout Appalachia.
He was a veteran of the U.S. Army National Guard Reserve and a member of American Legion Post 93 in Kenova, whose Honor Guard will conduct graveside services.
Deb was a man of strong convictions, known for his patriotism and steadfast support of working people. He dedicated his life to advocating for workers’ rights and was honored for his impact with induction into the West Virginia Laborers Hall of Fame.
He enjoyed westerns and the outdoors. He found great joy in golfing, gardening, hunting, and fishing, and especially valued time spent with friends, including his lifelong friend, David “Bones” McComas.
Above all, Deb was a devoted father, grandfather, brother, and uncle who cherished time with his family.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by three brothers, Joe, Willard “Wick,” and Toby Shy; and three sisters, Willa Board, Dean Finley, and Mona Cole.
Survivors include his beloved daughters, Melanie (Jason) Kearns, Marissa (Bill) Coleman, and Megan (Scott) Payne; grandchildren, Nicholas (Haley) Hagy, Lauren Shilot, Natalee Hagy, Sarah Kearns, Jacob Arrington, Savannah Payne, and Delaney Payne; one brother, Vernon Dale Shy; two sisters, Olive “Ott” Smith and Pansy Whaley; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Funeral services will be conducted on Thursday March 26, 2026 at 2 p.m. at First Baptist Church of Ceredo, in Ceredo, West Virginia, with visitation from noon until 2 p.m. Graveside burial will follow at the Shy-Gilkerson Family Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests memorial contributions to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or a local veterans’ home, honoring Deb’s generosity and service to others.
Rollins Funeral Home is assisting the family. Online condolences may be expressed at www.rollinsfh.com.
So sorry to learn of Deb’s passing. I had spent lots of great times riding horses on White’s Creek with Deb and the whole gang. He loved riding and was a very good one. He spent a lot of time on the McComas hilltop with Dave and Roger. I’m sure he will be sadly missed.
So sorry to learn of Deb’s passing. I had spent lots of great times riding horses on White’s Creek with Deb and the whole gang. He loved riding and was a very good one. The Shys and the McComases were like brothers. I’m sure he will be sadly missed.