Friends of Selby Minner call for change after her tragic death

Friends of blues musician Selby Minner are calling for changes to how mental health crises are handled after police say her brother—who struggled with mental illness—murdered her last week in Rentiesville.

Q: Who was Selby Minner?

A: Selby Minner was a beloved blues musician, founder of the Oklahoma Blues Hall of Fame, and a passionate music teacher who dedicated her life to sharing blues with children and her community.

Shelly Reynolds: "She was so soft-hearted and soft-spoken—unless she was playing and singing."

Q: What happened to her?

A: Selby was found dead last Monday at her home in Rentiesville. Police say her brother, Louis Carl Guenther, admitted to killing her. Friends say he had struggled with mental health issues for many years.

Related: Friends remember Oklahoma blues legend Selby Minner as mentor and music pioneer

Q: Why are her friends speaking out?

A: They believe this tragedy could have been prevented and are calling for systemic changes in how mental health crises are handled, especially when people refuse treatment or medication.

Shelly Reynolds: “This didn’t have to happen. Selby should still be here.”

Q: What are they doing to create change?

A: Selby’s friend Shelly Reynolds has started a petition urging lawmakers to address gaps in mental health care, particularly when families can’t force treatment for loved ones showing signs of serious mental illness.

“We've seen too many of these tragedies,” Shelly said.

Q: Why is this issue so personal for them?

A: Selby wasn't just a talented musician—she was a deeply generous person.

Shelly Reynolds: "She always just gave so much of her heart... She even offered to teach me bar chords when I was struggling."

Q: What do experts say families should watch for?

A: Warning signs include:

1. Major behavioral changes
2. Loss of appetite
3. Increased anxiety or depression

What You Can Do:

1. A link to the petition: Petition · The Selby Minner Act
2. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, call the 988 Crisis Line—help is available 24/7.