Mr. Paul Jerome Shelf, aka, "Showboat" was born March 19, 1953 in Winston-Salem, NC to the late James and Margaret Ellis Shelf Jr.  He was a lifelong resident of the city and a graduate of West Forsyth High School. Mr. Shelf attended Appalachian State University. In his spare time he loved coaching and mentoring the youth. He was a retiree of Shaffer Welding and later on worked for the WSFC Schools.

"Showboat" loved music, especially jazz, and attending the many jazz festivals. He volunteered with the North Carolina Black Theatre Festival in the transportation area. His love for sports led to his traveling to many sporting events. He was an avid WSSU fan.

Spiritually, he was of the Baptist faith.

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by a brother, Donald Ray Shelf, aka, "MOOKIE". Mr. Shelf departed this life Thursday June 2, 2022 at Novant Health Medical Center.

He is survived by four sisters, Deloris Linder, Barbara Glenn, Brenda Harris and his twin, Paula Simmons all of Winston-Salem, NC; a host of nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, devoted friends James(Julia) Chisholm; and other relatives and friends.

A Service of memory will be held 2:00 pm Friday June 10, 2022 in the chapel of Hooper Funeral Home. The family will receive friends from 1:30 pm-2:00 pm at the funeral home. There will be no public viewing.