Her Early Years,

Shelley Renee' McAfee was born November 29, 1950 in Wichita, Kansas, to Luvarn Smith and Arthur McAfee.  She matriculated through the Wichita Public Schools in Wichita Kansas, graduating from East High School.  After East High School she attended University of Kansas and later Wichita State University to become a social worker and counselor.  In 1988 she opened a halfway house for women to assist them with the transition from the criminal justice system back into society.  From that venture she founded A New Beginning Drug and Alcohol Outreach Program in 1989.  She thrived on helping people.  Her motto was "People Helping People".  She continued to serve the community for over 20 years before she retired. She was a powerful tycoon.

Her Family Life

Shelley married Lorenzia Harding in 1989 and remained married for 33 years.  They had 1 child together, Ashmarr Harding (Yvette).  Shelley had 5 other children, Brist McConico (Karlyn), Marlowe McConico, the twins Lauren and Lamar Miller Sr., Eugene Nicholson (LaTasha).  Preceding her in death, her parents Luvarn and Frank Wilkins, father Arthur McAfee, brothers Frank Jr. and Reginald Wilkins.  Shelley loved to travel and to cook for her family and friends.

Her Demise

On July 4 ^th , 2022 Shelley was called home from labor to reward. She fought a good fight. Left to cherish her memories are her 6 children, her brother Michael Wilkins (Atlanta, GA.) and sister Jeryle Ford (Memphis, TN), 18 grandchildren, a special niece Pamela Dempsy, a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, family and friends.