Aphrodite Barbatis “Dyckie” O’Shell
Dyckie O’Shell, a loving mother, devoted Catholic, and source of joy and inspiration to all who knew her, passed away at the age of 93. She left behind a legacy of kindness, compassion, and a radiant spirit that touched the lives of many.
Born in Beaumont, Texas, on July 26, 1929, Dyckie was the beloved daughter of Christine and Dimitri Barbatis, and the proud younger sister of Marie Barbatis Keriotis. She was raised in the most loving home and spent a good part of her childhood in her parents’ restaurant, Christy’s, located in downtown Beaumont. Dyckie’s early years shaped her into a compassionate and caring individual who carried those values throughout her life. Her Greek heritage gave her an enormous sense of pride and paved the road to many lifelong friendships.
Dyckie’s education began at St. Anthony’s School, where she not only received an excellent education but also forged lifelong friendships. It was during her time at St. Anthony that she crossed paths with Vincent O’Shell, the love of her life and her future husband.
After graduating from St. Anthony High School, she attended the University of Houston, where she pursued a master’s degree in education. This began her career as a teacher to students in both Houston and Beaumont.
Dyckie’s faith was an integral part of her life, and her devotion to the Catholic Church, particularly St. Anne Catholic Church and St. Anthony Cathedral Basilica. She found solace and strength in her beliefs, and her spirituality guided her actions and interactions with others.
Above all, Dyckie cherished her role as a loving mother to her children, Cynthia, Doria, and Michael. Her unconditional love, support, and unwavering belief in their potential nurtured their growth and shaped them into the individuals they are today. Dyckie’s love extended beyond her immediate family, as she possessed a remarkable ability to make everyone she encountered feel special and appreciated. With a kind word and a heartfelt compliment, she uplifted those around her, leaving a lasting impact on their lives.
She is preceded in death by her parents; her husband, V. J. O’Shell; her sister, Marie Keriotis; and sister-in-laws, Marja O’Shell and Annette Polite.
Dyckie is survived by her daughter, Cynthia Goehringer and her husband, Charlie; daughter, Doria Hanna and husband, Jay; son, Michael and wife, Christina; as well as her grandchildren, Marti and Sosh Goehringer; Kendall and Christine Hanna; Allie and Michael O’Shell III; who all affectionately called her Aiya. She also leaves behind her devoted niece, Christine Keriotis, and nephew, Jim Keriotis, as well as Gracelyn Miller and Joey Breaux.
The void left by Dyckie’s passing will be deeply felt by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her infectious laughter, warm embrace, and genuine interest in others will be greatly missed. However, her memory will forever remain in the hearts of those she touched with her love and kindness.
In this time of grief, the family extends their heartfelt gratitude for the support and condolences received by her caregivers who include Florencia Cortez, Delores Velis, Reyna Perez, Sylvia Reyes, Agatha Boniface, and Victoria Cardenas, as well as Dr. Al Brady, Dr Joseph Denton Harris and Dr. Reynolds Delgado.
Rest in eternal peace, dear Dyckie, knowing that your love and light will continue to shine brightly in the lives of all those who were fortunate enough to have known you.
A gathering of Mrs. O’Shell’s family and friends will begin at 12:00 p.m., with a Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated at 1:30 p.m., Saturday, June 24, 2023, at St. Anne Catholic Church, 2715 Calder Avenue, Beaumont, under the direction of Broussard’s, 2000 McFaddin Avenue, Beaumont, with a reception to be held in the parish hall immediately following the Mass. Her interment will be held at Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Beaumont.
Video
Gathering of Family and Friends
St. Anne Catholic Church
- 2715, Calder Ave, Beaumont, TX, 77702,
- June 24, 2023
- 12:00 pm - 1:30 pm
Mass of Christian Burial
St. Anne Catholic Church
- 2715, Calder Ave, Beaumont, TX, 77702,
- June 24, 2023
- 1:30 pm
Interment
Forest Lawn Memorial Park
- 4955, Pine St, Beaumont, TX, 77703,
Your mom was one of the first ladies I met when we moved to Beaumont. It was at a Dental wives meeting. She kept us laughing. She was always so kind to me. It is difficult to lose someone who has loved you all your life. May your friends, family and faith comfort you. You may no me as Suzy Hall Stockert.
Love & prayers. She will be missed but never forgotten.
I am sorry to learn of the passing of your Mom. I pray that your many special memories of her will help you find peace in the coming days and months.
She always had a smile and we enjoyed catching up when I would see her. Through the years, I often visited with her when she was with her friend Carlita Zummo or Katherine Veletsos. They were the sweetest ladies. I first got to know her when I taught Michael third grade at St. Annes’s.
She will be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with each of you at this difficult time.
Jan Fertitta
What a beautiful sweet soul Dyckie was. I’m so glad that I got to know and spend time with her over coffee whilst at her dear friend Evangeline Georges’ home. She will be greatly missed. Love and prayers to her family
Cynthia and O’Shell family,
As is I walked past your mom’s pew after communion at mass this evening, I could see he beautiful smile and sweet face. I said a prayer for her and your family. She has a special place in heaven. Sending love and prayers
Mary Smith
To the O’Shell Family,
I worked for Dr. O’Shell many years ago. Both he and Dykie I remember so well and their kindness. Dykie had been on my heart lately wondering how she was doing. I am so sorry to hear of her passing. I pray that those precious memories of her will get you through the days ahead. My condolences to the family. May you rest in peace Dykie. You were loved.
Many prayers for the loss of precious, Dykie!
Go rest high on that mountain, for your work on earth is done. You always spread sunshine where ever you were.
Doria, Cynthia, and Michael,
I’m so very sorry for your loss. Your mom was such a special lady. She always greeted me with a smile and big hug. I’ll always remember her love for you three and your precious daddy. I’m out of town but I’m sending lots of love and prayers to you all.
Mary Jane Benning
David and I are saddened to hear of your family’s loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
I am sorry to hear about the death of your sweet Mother, Dyckie. When I saw her she had that wonderful laugh. There will be no one like her again. She was my parents’ friend. May God be with you during this time.
Cynthia, thinking of you and your family.
Dykie was a good friend of my parents. I used to see her at St Anne ‘s Church. We will miss her. We will keep her in our prayers —Walter and Mary Brocato
My parents, Marcia and Frank Giglio and Sister, Suzanne Giglio Peiler, have some hilarious memories of her and V.J from our trip to Europe with them. Suzanne and I were students and still living at home. Dyckie and V. J. were a hoot together!
I also have fond memories from watching them dance at wedding receptions. They were so cool and “American Bandstand” qualifiers!
LOL ????
She will be missed by many.
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Joan Giglio Kirkpatrick
Cynthia, Doria, Michael,
We are so sorry to hear about the passing of your sweet mother. Dykie had gifts of a great smile, laughter and love for us all. Her presence was and will continue to be a great reminder of what life is about…faith and family! She will be missed! I know she is now enjoying her welcoming and eternal life in the heavenly kingdom with God and her family and many friends. Each of you are in our thoughts and prayers.
God Bless,
Allison & Jim
What a great lady Dyckie was. Loved being around her and her family as they always made everyone around them feel better.
Lots of laughs and good times.
Condolences to the family. Rest in eternal peace Dyckie.
Dyckie was one of a kind. She was loving, caring, funny and loyal to family and friends. I have loved Dyckie for many years. Praying for her family.
Our prayers and sympathy go out to you on the loss of your mother. Dyckie was joy to be around and we loved her dearly. Sandy and Joseph Fertitta
I am so sorry to learn of dykie’s passing. She has always been part of my life.
I will miss her friendliness and smile.
With my mom and v j being family friends she was also part of the family.
On behalf of my mom and I love and prayers.
Mike cacioppo