John L. Shelton Jr., 82, passed away peacefully on February 26, 2025, in Fort Worth, Texas, after a valiant battle with pancreatic cancer. Born on January 30, 1943, in Texarkana, Arkansas to John Leonard and Marie Bessie Shelton. After graduating from Hooks High School in 1961, he moved to Dallas, TX to continue his education.

In 1967 he met the love of his life, Sheri Lynn Steele and they were married on February 15, 1969, in Irving, Texas. Shortly thereafter he graduated from Southern Methodist University in 1970, with a bachelor's degree in business administration.

John's academic journey is a testament to his analytical mind and attention to detail. His career was marked by integrity and a commitment to excellence. John's professional life was not just about numbers; he was deeply involved in various associations, contributing his expertise and time to improve the industry he loved.

Soon after he started working for Hunt Oil Company in Downtown Dallas. While working there, he obtained his certificate to practice as a Certified Public Accountant in 1982. He would end up working at the firm for approximately 25 years. From there he started a new chapter in his life by becoming an independent contractor. This enabled him to purchase his own practice in 1999 and operate until he decided to retire in December of 2020.

Those who worked with John knew him as a mentor and friend, someone who always put the needs of others before his own. His passion extended beyond his career, infusing every aspect of his life with purpose and vitality. John approached every challenge with grace and determination, embodying the words of Helen Keller: "Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved."

John was known for his selfless nature, passionate dedication to his work, and a gentle spirit that touched the lives of all who knew him.

John was saved at a Christian Church in Hooks, Texas. He attended Oakview Baptist Church along with his wife until they moved their membership to First Baptist Church of Irving in 1981 where he was a longtime member and served as a deacon. John is preceded in death by his spouse, Sheri Lynn Shelton, his sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Phyllis & Elvis Bruner, parents, and parents, John Leonard & Marie Bessie Shelton. He is survived by son, Greg Shelton and fiancée Becky Torres, niece Gayle Vaughn and husband Larry of Joplin, Missouri, and grandchildren Carter & Claire Shelton, and Joshua Torres all of Fort Worth, Texas, Stephen Torres of Osan, Korea Air Force Base, sister and niece. His love for the Lord and his family was felt by all.

John's legacy is one of kindness, wisdom, and the quiet strength that comes from a life well-lived. His passing leaves a void in the hearts of many, but his memory will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to have known him. John L. Shelton Jr. will be profoundly missed, yet his spirit endures in the countless lives he enriched throughout his remarkable journey.