Friday, September 13, 2024

Obituaries - Janet Baker Shelton, Lori Mae Olivarez

Lori Mae Olivarez
January 6th, 1965 - September 6th, 2024

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Lori Mae Olivarez, a beloved wife, mother, daughter, aunt, sister, and grandmother. Lori went to meet our Lord on September 8th, 2024, in Labelle, Florida, at the age of 59. She was born on January 6th, 1965, in Washington, Pennsylvania, to Walter and Joyce Sherman, who instilled in her an abiding love of the Lord.

 She expressed this love through song and loved nothing more than lifting her voice in praise. She was united in marriage to her adored husband, Homero Olivarez, who was by her side until the day she was called home.

 Lori dedicated her life to many passions. She was as a talented hair stylist, with a knack for drawing out physical beauty among the curls and strands. However, it was behind a microphone on the stage of a church where her own beauty shined bright and effortless. Her voice, soulful and authentic, betrayed her petite frame. It was common to hear gasps from her audience at the strength and energy flowing from this slight woman as she sang her opening notes. She was renowned for her beautiful renditions of classic and contemporary gospel songs and had a particular fondness for Karen Wheaton.

 Despite her striking beauty, Lori was known for her fun-loving, goofball nature, which endeared her to everyone she encountered. 

Lori leaves behind a legacy of love and family, survived by her mother, Joyce Sherman; her devoted husband, Homero Olivarez; her daughters Amanda Chapman, Vanessa Chapman, and Tiffany Freeman; her siblings Billy Sherman, Linda Brown, Karen Sherman, Jeffrey Sherman, David Sherman, and Timmy Sherman; and her treasured grandchildren, Aurora Chapman, Sophi Brewer, Jonah Walker, Layne Love, and Wyatt Love.

 She will be missed by many friends and extended family members including her beloved stepchildren with her husband Homer. She is mourned by the fathers of her own children, Elwood Chapman and Cliff Freeman as well, a testament to the love they shared that only changed but never vanished. 

She was preceded in death by her adoring father, Walter Sherman, her precious brother, Gary Sherman, her beloved grandchild, Alyna Gonzalez, and her cherished nephew, Brett Sherman. She is now reunited with those she missed so dearly.

 A celebration of Lori's life will be held at the Akin Davis Funeral Home in Labelle, Florida, on Monday, September 16th, 2024, at 10:00 AM. Friends and family are invited to join in honoring her memory and sharing their condolences. She is surely among that choir most high. May she rest in peace, embraced by the eternal harmonies of heaven.

Janet Baker Shelton
March 7th, 1949 - September 7th, 2024

Janet Baker Shelton, born on March 7, 1949, in Cookeville, TN, passed away peacefully in Fort Myers, FL, on September 7, 2024. Her life, spanning 75 inspiring years, was marked by an unwavering dedication to family, community, and an abundance of kindness.

Janet's legacy is etched in the hearts of her loved ones. She is survived by her devoted son, Scott Shropshire; loving daughter, Teresa Ellis; cherished grandchildren Jordan Libak, Robert Pavlinovic, Justin Shropshire and three step grandchildren Adam, Ian and Sydnee Ellis; and her adored great-granddaughters Hali, Blair, and Bria Libak and step grandsons Ezekiel and Byron Ellis. Her siblings, Carol Quillin, Jerry Baker, Jimmy Baker, Larry Baker and John Baker, also mourn her passing, as do countless friends and community members whose lives she touched.

Known for her kindness and generosity, Janet was always eager to help anyone in need, demonstrating an energetic spirit that uplifted everyone around her. She embraced life with a zest that was both inspiring and contagious.

Janet’s interests were as vibrant as her personality. She had a passion for singing, blessed with a voice that could move souls and lift spirits. Antiquing was another of her beloved pastimes, finding joy in the stories and history of each piece she collected. She loved spending time at the beach, taking long contemplative walks along the river, and cherishing every moment spent with her grandchildren.

A celebration of her life will be held on Friday, September 20th, with a viewing at 10:00 AM, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 AM at Ortona Cemetery, 8898 W 78, Moore Haven, FL 33471.

Janet Baker Shelton's life was a testament to the power of kindness, generosity, and an energetic spirit. Her voice may have quieted, but her legacy will continue to resonate through the lives she touched.

May we all find inspiration in Janet’s journey, carrying forward the light and warmth she so generously shared.

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