Joe attended school in Stamford. After graduation, he moved to Oklahoma where he met Shirley Roberts. They were married on March, 1957 in Stillwater, and was married 68 years. The nickname “Joe” was given to him by his older brother and remained with him his entire life.

Joe worked numerous jobs involving oil field work and as a pipe fitter-welder at numerous oil refineries along the gulf coast. Later in life, he became a top rated farrier and was an expert horseman and team roper.

At one time, he was a deputy sheriff for Galveston County, TX. As well as a scuba-diving instructor, he was an expert gunsmith and avid golfer.

Joe is survived by his wife, Shirley, of the home; one son, Ronald Paul Shell, Jr (Elaine) of Roff; two daughters, Choya Shell of Roff and Katy Shell of Newcastle; four grandchildren Desiree, Aubrie, Regina and Natalie and eight great-grandchildren.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents, a sister Kathryn Jane Stewart and a brother Jules Vern.

Per Joe’s request, no services will be held.