Shelva Ruth Doolittle Calloway

Shelva Ruth Doolittle Calloway, 89, of Asheville entered her eternal home on Monday morning, February 9, 2026. She was the widow of Claude Calloway who died in 1973 at the age of 38. Born November 30, 1936 in Newberry County, SC to Warren Doolittle and Ruth Rawls Doolittle.

Shelva graduated from Monticello High School and continued her education at Spartanburg General Hospital School of Nursing and Wofford College. After graduating with a Nursing Degree, she accepted a position at Oteen Veterans Hospital in Asheville. Shelva was a devoted nurse and after retirement continued her love of the nursing profession by helping in the community. During her 37 1/2 years at the VA, she received numerous awards and recognitions.

She and Claude were charter members of Oteen United Methodist Church which later became East Asheville United Methodist. She was a devoted member, heavily involved in church activities including Sunday School, bible studies, choir, arranging lunches and outstanding special dinners. She also represented the church in many board and governing capacities.

Another important work was her involvment with “Family to Families”, an organization of several churches that provide necessities for Bell Elementary School families in need.

Surviving are her four children; Tim (Beth) Calloway, Todd Calloway, Terrell (Jamie) Calloway, and Tonya (Zeb Penland) Calloway; brother, Yancy Ray Doolittle (Chapin, SC) and sister, Nancy Kay Doolittle (Columbia, SC). Additional survivors are grandchildren; Ashley Calloway, Jackson (Melissa) Calloway, Jacob (Bekah) Calloway, Brittney (Robbie) Blanchard, and Grace Penland; great-grandchildren, Jase Williams, Maeson Williams, Jax Williams, Remi Calloway, and Truett Calloway; also, her beloved puppy, Maddie, who brought her many hours of comfort and happiness.

A memorial service will be announced very soon. Please continue to check this obituary for the details.

In lieu of flowers, if one so wishes, memorials may be sent to: East Asheville United Methodist Church, 48 Browndale Road, Asheville, NC 28805.