It is with profound sadness yet unwavering faith in God's promise that we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, and faithful servant, Shelby Jean Strickland Denning, who entered the nearer presence of her Lord and Savior on Wednesday 12 November 2025 at the age of 87.

Born on 8 June 1938 in Newton Grove, North Carolina, Jean as she was known, spent her life embodying the scripture "Love is patient, love is kind." Her life was a beautiful, living testimony to the power of unwavering Christian faith, demonstrated daily in her quiet strength, her boundless generosity, and her gentle, forgiving spirit. A devoted member of Blackman’s Grove P. F. W. B. Church for over 70 years, she served faithfully as a Deacon as well as teaching Sunday school and considered her church community a vital extension of her home.

The deepest joy of Jean’s life was her family. She was the cherished wife of Charlie Martin Denning for 58 years, building a home founded on prayer, laughter, and unconditional support. As a mother to four children and a grandmother to three grandchildren, she poured her entire heart into nurturing and guiding her loved ones. The warmth of her kitchen, the comfort of her prayers, and the wisdom of her advice shaped her family’s lives more profoundly than words can convey. She taught them the importance of grace, compassion, and fixing their eyes on eternity.

She is preceded in death by her husband Charlie Martin Denning, her son Charlie Mitchell Denning and daughter Rhonda Denning Troutman, parents, Wilbert and Louise Gilbert Strickland, and her siblings, Catherine Strickland, Adolph Strickland, Etta Mae Leber, Margaret Coates, Ann Lee and Wilbur (Bill) Strickland.

Jean is survived by her adoring children; Teresa Humbert of Birdseye, IN, Christopher Martin Denning of Newton Grove, NC; her treasured grandchildren, April Smith, Bradley Bass and Sierra Denning; Step Grandchildren Cody and Corey Humbert.  Great Grandchildren, Chloe, Drake and Elliot Smith and Ashlyn Bass. She leaves behind a legacy of love woven from countless quiet sacrifices, faithful service, and the enduring hope found in Christ.

A visitation will be held on Monday, November 17th from 9:00-11:00AM at Blackman’s Grove Church 1362 Timothy Road Dunn, NC 28334.  The funeral will take place at 11:00am following visitation. Interment will immediately follow at Blackman’s Grove Church Cemetery.

Dunn Funeral Home of Newton Grove, N.C. is honored to serve the Denning Family.