Dr James Edward Shelton
Dr James Edward Shelton, went to join his beloved wife of 57 years on October 13th, 2021. James was the son of the late Lula Runyon Shelton and late Ralph Shelton, born in Perry County Kentucky in 1929.
Dr Shelton, attended Ford High School in Detroit Michigan. After graduation he enrolled at University of Detroit until December. Then, decided to transfer to Eastern Kentucky University in Richmond Kentucky. While at Eastern Kentucky University he met his future wife during chemistry class (she made an A in the class while he made a B). His degree program was transferred to University of Kentucky so he completed his Bachelors Degree in Agriculture. He stayed at University of Kentucky to complete his Masters Degree in Agriculture. James was drafted into the Army and served at Fort Knox in Kentucky as a Military Tank Commander. James attended North Carolina State University to complete his PHD in Soil Science. Dr Shelton worked for NC State University for his entire career since 1959. For 45 years he worked as Extension Specialist, Educator, while serving as Full Professor at the Mountain Horticultural Crops and Research and Extension Center in Mills River, North Carolina.
Dr Shelton was awarded the following awards throughout his 45 year career with NC State University: NC Recycler of the Year 1996, NC House of Representatives, Tennessee Valley Association outstanding contribution to the Agricultural Resource development program for his vision and leadership, Blue Ridge Apple Growers Association for outstanding contribution to the apple industry of WNC February 8, 1995, Certificate of Retirement from NC State University for 45 years, Western North Carolina Agricultural Hall of Fame, North Carolina Association of County Agricultural Agents for contributions to the agricultural industry in Western North Carolina, US Environmental Protection Agency for Beneficial use of Biosolids Award 1996, NC Tomatoes Growers Association for support of the tomato industry, NC Christmas Tree Association for Outstanding Educator Award, State of North Carolina Licensed Soil Scientist April 21, 1997, Congressional Recognition for outstanding service and invaluable service to the community, International Spanish Award in gratitude for his participation in the seminar on the International Soil Fertility Project, Certificate of Nomination for the Honorable Service in the United States Armed Forces, and 1992 Research Friends of the Extension Award in appreciation for contributions to the faculty and programs of the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service.
Ann Catherine Covington Shelton, proceeds James Shelton in death after 57 years of marriage and together for 61 years. Also proceeding in death brothers Jennings Shelton, Alvin Shelton, sisters Anne Pratt, Ruby Reeves and Ruth Herrin. James is survived by his daughters, Sue Shelton and Fran Shelton of Hendersonville, NC, grandchildren Jamie Conner and wife Erin Conner of Hendersonville, Katy Sorrells and husband Steven Sorrells of Marion, NC, Joey Conner of Cashiers, NC and Great Grandson Emmett Conner of Hendersonville, NC, and several nieces and nephews.
Funeral Services will be held at First United Methodist Church in Hendersonville, North Carolina, Friday October 22nd at 11:00am in the sanctuary. Pastor Robert Clore, James Shelton’s nephew, and Pastor Karen Easter-Bayne will officiate. Mask will be required by the family in order to keep everyone safe during the funeral service.
Graveside services will be held Saturday October 23 at the Richmond City Cemetery in Richmond, Kentucky at 2:00pm with Pastor Robert Clore officiating. In lieu of flowers please make contributions to the music department at First United Methodist Church, 204 6th Avenue West Hendersonville, North Carolina 28739.