Meet
Shelby
On September 7, 2002, “Baby B” burst into this world as Shelby Faith McWaters, only one minute behind her sister.
From the minute Shelby entered this world, everyone knew she possessed a radiating joy which made her stand out.
Then, very early in life it was evident that she was a people person who loved big and possessed a gentle confidence.
Her Light Lives On
Shelby had a way of making people feel seen.
She didn’t just show up in a room—she connected. She included. She brought joy with her wherever she went.
And when she was gone, that light didn’t disappear.
It multiplied.
Through the people she loved. Through the lives she touched. Through the stories that continue to be shared.
The Shelby Shines On Foundation was created to carry that light forward—turning love into action, and compassion into real, tangible impact.
Because Shelby didn’t just live boldly.
She loved loudly.
And that’s a legacy worth continuing.
Shelby’s story didn’t end.
It continues—through every life touched, every opportunity created, and every moment of joy made possible in her name.
Because of the generosity of donors and the heart behind this foundation, Shelby’s light is showing up in real, meaningful ways.
From helping provide new uniforms for a special needs cheer team—giving athletes confidence, belonging, and pride…
To supporting families and organizations who are often overlooked, but deeply deserving…
To investing in research and awareness that could change lives for those affected by Klippel–Trénaunay Syndrome…
These aren’t just acts of giving.
They are reflections of who Shelby was.
Joyful. Inclusive. Compassionate.
And determined to make sure no one felt left out.
Every story you see here is a continuation of that legacy.
Her Light in Action
Never one to sit on the sidelines. Shelby was fully present—no matter what the moment called for.
Shelby had a way of making people feel seen.
She didn’t just show up in a room—she connected.
She included. She made space for others in a way that felt natural and effortless.
It didn’t matter who you were or where you came from.
If you were near Shelby, you were part of something.
From the very beginning, that connection was rooted in the bond she shared with her twin sister, Ivy—a relationship that reflected the same closeness, joy, and understanding Shelby extended to everyone around her.
Her infectious smile and genuine interest in people drew others in, but it was her kindness and authenticity that made them stay.
People didn’t just know Shelby.
They felt known by her.
A Life That Touched Everyone
Shelby and her twin sister, Ivy
Right Where She Loved to Be
Shelby’s life was full of movement, connection, and joy—but she truly came alive in the places and moments she loved most.
When her family moved closer to Covington Square, it opened a new chapter filled with purpose, independence, and connection.
She loved riding her golf cart around The Square, stopping to talk with anyone she met along the way.
She found joy in the simple, everyday moments—working at The Soap Box, chatting with familiar faces at City Pharmacy, or spending time at a classic car show.
These weren’t just routines.
They were relationships.
Shelby had a way of turning ordinary places into spaces where people felt welcomed, included, and known.
Wherever she went, she brought that same light with her.
The moments she loved most were the ones she shared.
A Light That Will Never Fade
On December 13, 2024, Shelby passed away at the age of 22 after suffering a stroke five days earlier.
The loss was sudden, and deeply felt by all who knew and loved her.
But even in that loss, something remarkable became clear.
The light Shelby carried—the joy, the kindness, the way she made people feel—didn’t end.
It remained.
In the stories shared.
In the lives she touched.
In the way people continue to love more openly, more generously, and more intentionally because of her.
Shelby’s life left a mark that cannot be undone.
And that light continues to shine.
Her light didn’t end. It multiplied.
Carrying Shelby’s Light Forward
Shortly after Shelby’s passing, her family and friends knew her story wasn’t meant to end.
It was meant to continue.
In January 2025, the Shelby Shines On Foundation was created to carry forward the same love, compassion, and joy that Shelby gave so freely.
Her heart for others—especially those who often feel overlooked—became the foundation for something bigger than any one moment.
This isn’t just about remembering Shelby.
It’s about living like she did.
Seeing people.
Including others.
Creating opportunities for joy, confidence, and connection.
Every act of kindness.
Every story shared.
Every life impacted.
It all carries her light forward.
Her Light Still Shines
Shelby’s story didn’t end.
It continues in every life she touched, every smile she sparked, and every act of kindness inspired by her example.
Through the Shelby Shines On Foundation, her legacy is still doing what it always did—bringing people together, lifting others up, and reminding us all to love a little louder.
And that light?
It’s still shining.
LOVE LOUDLY. LIVE BOLDLY.