Shirley Moore Sentelle

In the tranquil embrace of Haywood County, North Carolina, Shirley Moore Sentelle, 87, a beloved matriarch and vibrant community spirit, was unexpectedly reunited in Heaven with her dearly missed husband, William Stuart "Bill" Sentelle, following a beautiful 62 years of marriage. Their love was an embodiment of strength and devotion, fashioning a legacy that will continue to inspire those left behind.

Born on September 27, 1937, in Haywood County, she would go on to become a cherished figure in her beloved community, operating Sentelle's Seafood, where her kind smile greeted every customer who walked through the door. Her welcoming spirit allowed her to build not just a business, but an integral part of family celebrations, holidays, and life events for those she served. 

Shirley was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend. She will be missed by all who had the honor of knowing her.

She is survived by her beloved daughter, Debbie Sentelle Milner and her husband, Michael; beloved son, William Stuart Sentelle, II, and step-son Mark Sentelle, and his wife, Pat. Shirley's heart flourished for her family; she delighted in the company of her loving grandchildren—Lauren Milner and her husband Matthew Clark—and Brandon Milner and his wife Tiffany. Her joy reached new heights with the laughter and wonder provided by her cherished great-grandchildren, Madison Clark and Olivia Milner. Additionally, Shirley's surviving family includes her sister, Carolyn Pressley, along with numerous nieces and nephews, among whom special mention goes to her beloved niece, Barbara Renfore.

Her nurturing home served as a backdrop for years of warm family gatherings. Shirley possessed an open heart, radiating kindness and generosity that extended far beyond her immediate family. Her delight in creating a welcoming environment for loved ones was matched only by her commitment to the community, making her loss profoundly felt by many.

Preceding her in eternal rest are her parents, Homer Moore and Cora Mayfield Moore, alongside her brothers—Sewel, Brenes, Johnny, Paul, Little Homer, and Winston Moore—and her sisters—Debrada Moore, Edna Glavich, Lavona Rhinehart, and Beulah Craig. Each familial bond etched memories of love and laughter, memories that resonate deeply in the hearts of those who carry her spirit forward.

As we celebrate the life of Shirley Moore Sentelle, we invite all those who were touched by her kindness and cherished her spirit to join us in honoring her legacy. The visitation will be held on Saturday, May 10, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 12:45 PM at Wells Funeral Home in Canton, North Carolina, followed by the funeral service at 12:45 PM with Pastor Matthew Pruett officiating. A graveside service will then take place at Bethel Community Cemetery.

In moments of reflection and remembrance, let us come together to treasure the beautiful life of Shirley, one filled with love, laughter, and an unyielding dedication to family and friends. May her legacy continue to illuminate the lives of those she leaves behind, inspiring kindness and generosity as a testament to her loving spirit.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN, 38105. 

The care of Mrs. Sentelle is entrusted to Wells Funeral Home of Canton, NC.