Jerry Bob Shelton, 88, of Lillington, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on December 22, 2025, at the Valley Hospice House in Fayetteville, North Carolina.

Born on January 15, 1937, in Mt. Vernon, Illinois, Jerry was the beloved son of the late Charles Hall Shelton and Vivian Edna Moore Shelton.

Jerry proudly served his country for 20 years in the United States Navy, retiring with the rank of Chief Petty Officer. Following his distinguished military service Jerry then went to work for ShellWell where he spent 10 years logging and perforating oil wells throughout Ohio. Jerry then had the opportunity to continue his dedication to his nation as a Federal Civil Service Superintendent of Infrastructure at Pope Air Force Base North Carolina, from which he also retired with 20 years of faithful service.

He was a life member of the Lillington Masonic Lodge, the Harnett County Shrine Club, and the Eastern Star Lodge #243 in Lillington.

A man with a spirit of adventure, Jerry was an avid golfer, motorcyclist, horse rider, and scuba diver. He and his cherished wife, Billie Shelton, his high school sweetheart and devoted partner of 70 years, shared a lifetime of love and travel together. As members of the Piedmont Airstream RV Association, they journeyed numerous times across the United States, creating memories that will last forever.

Jerry is survived by his loving wife, Billie Shelton, and his son, Tony Shelton, both of Lillington, NC. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Becky Roberts, and nephews Kevin Bullock, Terry Bullock, and Morey Shelton all of Illinois, one niece Jeanie Wright of Georgia and Three God children from Kentucky also survives.

Jerry will be remembered for his unwavering devotion to family, his lifelong service to his country, and his zest for life. His kindness, humor, and generous spirit touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. There was never a stranger in Jerry's life.

Funeral services will be held at a later date.

"Fair winds and calm seas, Chief. Your watch is complete."