Michael Vatchel Carden

MICHAEL VATCHEL CARDEN, age 69, of Shelby, passed away suddenly on January 26, 2026, in Shelby, Alabama. He was born in Shelby County on August 3, 1956, the son of the late William “Bill” Carden and the late Martha Jane Howell Carden.

Michael worked in construction for many years, where he was known for his strong work ethic and hands-on skill. Outside of work, he had a deep love for playing pool and gambling. A talented and competitive player, Michael was an APA pool player in the Birmingham region and enjoyed the strategy, challenge, and camaraderie that came with the game.

He is survived by his sisters, Sharon (Rickey) Wilbanks, Marsha (Jimmy) Scott, and Jane Ready; his brother, Allan (Charlene) Barnes; his best friend and former wife, Angie Glass; his two daughters he never had the opportunity to meet, Danielle and Caroline; four grandchildren; and a host of nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his son, Shannon Carden; his parents, William “Bill” Carden and Martha Jane Howell Carden; his sisters, Dorothy Carden and Sandra Raia; and his brother, William Carden.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, January 30, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. in the Community Room at Ellison Memorial Funeral Home, with Rev. Isom Dawson officiating.

There will be no visitation.

Burial will follow in the Old Shelby Cemetery in Shelby, Alabama.

Final care and arrangements entrusted to the Ellison Memorial Funeral Home of Clanton, AL.

www.EllisonMemorialFuneralHome.com