William H. Shelton, 96

December 31, 2024

William H. Shelton, 96, passed away peacefully on December 31, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. Bill, as he was known to everyone, was born in Mt. Airy, NC, a son of the late Clyde and Gertrude Shelton of White Bear, Summit Hill, PA. He is survived by the love of his life, Irene (Karnish) Shelton, wife of 68 years.

Bill grew up in North Carolina, but moved to the coal regions as a youngster, playing with siblings in humble surroundings. He left high school in the tenth grade to help support his family and then enlisted in the army. Bill served in Korea, trained with the infantry of the US Army in the 5th Regimental Combat team attached to the 24th Division. He served as a medic with the 81mm heavy mortar company with the rank of Sgt., from January 1951 to October of 1952.

When he returned from the service, he graduated from Jim Thorpe Machinist School on the GI Bill. Bill worked for 32 years as a partsmaker and later as an electronic technician at RCA, GE, and Thompson Corp, retiring in 1988. While working at RCA, he received his GED. Bill was extremely proud of and valued his education. He was a member of American Legion Post 34, the Korean Graybeards, and former member of Guys and Dolls at St. Phillips Church.

Bill was the consummate family man; his life revolved around family and friends. He was always ready to welcome neighbors and friends for some porch sitting, his favorite recreational activity. In addition to his wife, he was Dad to Jane Shelton Biggerstaff of Lititz and Judith Ann Huber (Scott) of Columbia, MD, Poppo to grandchildren Andrew and Abbie, Emily and Adam, Rachel and Brent, Jack and Kelly, Sarah and Jim, Rebecca and Mason, and Rachel, and to great grandchildren Anna, Harrison, and Avila and two more on the way. He was preceded in death by his eight brothers and sisters: Charles, Ethel, Connie, Mary (Teenie), Donald, Richard, Peggy, and Bobby.

Bill was the kindest, most gentle soul. He loved well and will be missed by many.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, January 7, 2025 at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, 501 E. Orange St., Lancaster, PA 17602 at 11AM with a visitation from 10-11AM . Interment will be at St. Anthony’s Cemetery, Lancaster. In lieu of flowers, please make contributions in Bill’s memory to St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church at the above address.