Terry Lynn Shelton, a devoted husband, loving father, cherished grandfather, and loyal friend, passed away on March 17th, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love and laughter. Born on April 1, 1959, in Knoxville, Tennessee, Terry’s life was a testament to hard work, compassion, and unwavering devotion to his family and community.

 

After graduating from Doyle High School, Terry proudly served in the United States Army as a Military Policeman. While serving in Germany he met the love of his life, his beautiful wife, Julie (Blackard) Shelton. Their love story was one of devotion and admiration, spanning over 40 years of shared laughter, tears, and countless cherished memories.

 

Throughout his career, Terry found joy and fulfillment in construction, particularly working with concrete. His skillful hands and dedication to his craft left a lasting impression on all who had the pleasure of witnessing his work. Later in his career, Terry joined Burns Harbor Cleveland Cliffs, where he formed wonderful friendships and made significant contributions to the community.

 

Beyond his professional life, Terry’s true legacy lies in the profound impact he had on those around him. He possessed a heart of gold, always ready to help anyone. His caring nature, his love of telling a story, and his genuine kindness left an indelible mark on all who knew him.

 

Terry was preceded in death by his son, Joshua Thomas Shelton, his grandparents, Ed and Lucille Leffew, grandmother Lynn Hicks, and uncle Edward Leffew, his mother Mary Katherine Shelton, and his brother Tommy Shelton.

 

Terry is survived by his best friend and devoted wife of 40 years, Julie Shelton, and his heartbroken daughters, Tracy and Lindsey Shelton, as well as his cherished bonus daughter, Tonya Newton. He also leaves behind his adoring grandchildren, Max, Lucy, Sebastian, and Anka, who brought him immeasurable joy and whose lives he enriched with his love, wisdom, and kindness.

 

Terry will be deeply missed but forever remembered for the love he shared, the lives he touched, and the laughter he brought into the world. He will also be remembered for his love and dedication to his favorite game, Candy Crush Saga. Though he may no longer be with us in body, his spirit will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

 

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Wednesday, March 27, 2024, at Holy Family Parish, St. Joseph Church, 109 C. Street. La Porte, Indiana. 

 

Arrangements have been entrusted to Frank L. Keszei Funeral Home, Essling Chapel in La Porte. 

 

Please join us in celebrating Terry’s life and the profound impact he had on each of us. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Riley Children’s Foundation, P.O. Box 3356, Indianapolis, Indiana 46206, or to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, Tennessee 38105.

 

To light a virtual candle, share a story of Terry’s life or leave a message of comfort for his family, please visit www.EsslingFuneralHome.com.