November 1946-June 12, 2025
Thomas “Tom” Shelton, of Patrick County and Roanoke, Virginia, passed away peacefully on June 12, 2025 at the age of 78. Born in November 1946 in Patrick County, he was the beloved son of James Curtis and Nellie Prillaman Shelton.
Tom was deeply loved by his wife, Sharon Shelton, and was a devoted father to Misty Wilcox, Chris Shelton, and Jennifer Hyde. He was also a proud grandfather to Cain Miller, John Delaney, Nicole Delaney, Cole Miller, Jack Hyde, Jacob Shelton, Julian Shelton, and Leah Hyde. He was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Sherry Delaney, and his brother, Doug Shelton.
He is survived by his siblings, Bobby Shelton and his wife Dottie, Sandra Wood and her husband John, Penny Shelton, and Curtis Shelton with his wife Wanda, and brother-in-law, Jon Ayers of Roanoke.
A graduate of Stuart High School, Tom was drafted into the U.S. Army and served honorably as a combat medic in the Vietnam War. He went on to serve his country for 33 years, retiring as a First Sergeant in the Army Reserve at Fort Eustis, with a distinguished career in aviation. He was a decorated veteran, honored with numerous military awards in recognition of his dedication, leadership, and service.
Tom also served the Commonwealth of Virginia as Chief Park Ranger at Fairystone, Claytor Lake, Hungry Mother, and First Landing State Parks. His deep respect for nature and commitment to public service left a lasting legacy across the state.
He was a devoted member of Newington Baptist Church, where he faithfully served as a deacon, offering guidance, support, and compassion to his church community.
Tom will be remembered for his kindness, generosity, and fun-loving spirit. He brought joy to every family gathering and loved beach trips, NASCAR, fishing, and sharing good meals with those he loved. His greatest accomplishments were not just his career or military honors, but the family he built and the lives he touched. Tom’s memory lives on most powerfully in the love and laughter of his grandchildren, whom he cherished deeply.
A memorial service was held on Wednesday, June 18, at 2 p.m. at Andrews Funeral Home in Gloucester. Visitation began at 12:30. Family and friends were invited to celebrate Tom’s remarkable life and the love he gave so freely.
The family asks that you honor Tom’s memory with a kind act, a shared story, or time spent with those you love—just as he always did.