Wears Valley, Sevier County, TN – A Wears Valley couple, Donna Shultz, 76, and Bobby Shultz, 74, died in a house fire early Sunday morning, as WVLT reported. The loss has prompted an outpouring of remembrance from friends and family across the community. The Shultzes, known for their consistent attendance at a local church, were noticed missing from a recent Sunday morning service. Shortly after their absence was noted, a family member received information regarding the fire.
According to Kendra Kay Bonilla, their eldest granddaughter, Donna and Bobby Shultz were characterized by their vibrancy and affection for life. Bonilla told WVLT that the couple remained "children at heart," regardless of their age. Their shared passions included extensive world travel and regular dates. Their adventures together took them to various locations, including beaches and cruises, and they explored museums such as Hershey's and the Andy Griffith Museum.
Bonilla further highlighted the couple's deep commitment to their faith and local community. She conveyed that their family and church held profound importance to them. Their devotion to one another was continually renewed, described as staying fresh "like everyday was the first day." The Shultzes were known for their selflessness, consistently giving more than they received and habitually prioritizing others over themselves. The couple, both of whom had been widowed previously, met in 2004 and were married in June 2005. This year would have marked their 21st wedding anniversary. Bonilla shared with WVLT that she had "never met two people more in love than them."
Beyond their personal relationship, the Shultzes also made individual contributions and shared collective interests. Bobby Shultz served in the United States Army from 1969 to 1992. Donna Shultz dedicated her time as a Sunday school teacher within their church. Both were ardent supporters of the Tennessee Volunteers, showing great enthusiasm for the team.
Close friend Thomas Rimmer considered the Shultzes to be significant figures in his life, telling WVLT that they were "like second parents to me." Rimmer explained that he adopted them as family because they consistently made him feel welcomed and part of their own. He recounted a personal anecdote involving Bobby's distinctive bear hat, which Bobby often wore to football or basketball games. Rimmer frequently borrowed the hat, and for his birthday two years prior, the couple gifted him an identical one. Rimmer emphasized their ability to uplift others, noting that they could improve anyone’s day, even a bad one, simply by performing a swing together.
Donna Maples, another friend who had known the couple for many years, expressed her shock at the news of their passing. Maples recalled vacationing with the Shultzes and traveling with them to attend various sports events at Sevier County High School. She described them as individuals who embraced everyone, always enjoying their time with the players. Maples told WVLT that "they never met a stranger," indicating their open and welcoming nature.
As of this report, funeral announcements for Bobby and Donna Shultz have not yet been released, with updates on their service information currently in progress. The precise cause of the fire remains under investigation.
