From a childhood filled with sweet cravings to becoming the proud owner of The Lil’ Ice Cream Dude Cool World Ice Cream Shop, Beau Shell’s journey has been marked by his unwavering passion for ice cream. Fondly nicknamed “the lil’ ice cream dude” by his mother, Vickie Shell, this endearing moniker inspired Beau’s entrepreneurial vision.
The story begins with Beau’s eighth birthday gift—a humble ice cream cart, which he later upgraded to a customized trailer dubbed the “Popsicle,” catering to ice cream enthusiasts on the go. Situated along Gaines School Road in Athens’ Ansonborough community, Beau’s shop opened its doors on June 9, 2019, coinciding with his birthday.
Driven by a family bond that forms the backbone of the business, Beau, Vickie, and Vincent Shell operated as the nucleus of the ice cream shop. While Beau served as the visionary, Vickie contributed her creative prowess, and Vincent handled logistics. Together, their close-knit and industrious family dynamic propelled Beau’s business to success.
However, the family’s resilience faced a formidable challenge in February of 2023 when Vickie’s health began to decline. Previously known for her sharp mind and capable demeanor, Vickie experienced symptoms such as poor vision, memory loss, and speech issues, prompting concern from her loved ones. A UGA and Georgia State graduate, former teacher, and indispensable force behind Beau’s business concept, Vickie’s sudden illness cast a shadow over their lives.
In May, the Shell family received the devastating news of Vickie’s brain cancer diagnosis. Commencing a rigorous regimen of treatments, including proton therapy and chemotherapy, Vickie embarked on a brave battle for her life. As Vickie fought her illness, Beau’s ice cream shop, their primary source of income, faced closures and operational challenges, with Beau shouldering the responsibility almost single-handedly.
In a heartwarming display of solidarity, Vickie’s brother, Al McKnight, initiated a GoFundMe campaign in July, aiming to raise $25,000 to support the family during this trying time. The response was overwhelming, with 332 donations pouring in from loyal customers, Athenians, and supporters nationwide, helping to alleviate some of the financial strain.
Despite undergoing surgery to remove her tumor in December, Vickie continues to grapple with aphasia, a language disorder affecting her communication abilities. Yet, her unwavering spirit and steadfast faith have remained unchanged, serving as a beacon of hope for her family during their darkest hours.
In the face of adversity, the Shell family clings to hope, drawing strength from their unbreakable bond and the outpouring of support from their community. Through their resilience and determination, they embody the power of love and unity in overcoming life’s greatest challenges.
