Shirley A. Shelton, 91, of Rockford, IL, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on Thursday, September 13, 2023. She was born July 26, 1932 in Phillipsburg, PA, the daughter of Russell and Hannah (Botwright) Estes. She graduated from Lew Wallace High School in Gary, IN, and went on to attend Millikin University. Shirley married James D. Shelton on June 16, 1963. She worked as an administrative assistant at Barber Colman and retired from DeVlieg Bullard. Shirley grew up in a musical family and continued a lifelong enjoyment of music. She was an avid reader and enjoyed doing crossword puzzles. Shirley was very patriotic, loved the 4th of July, and never missed her opportunity to vote. Shirley loved cooking for her family and spending time with her grandchildren, never missing an event in their lives. She was known for being caring, loving, witty, social, and feisty. Shirley was small but mighty and had a zest for life.
Shirley is loved and missed by her children, Cynthia (Ron Pipkorn) Jack and Bradley (Rhonda) Shelton; twin grandsons, Michael Jack and Daniel (Paige) Jack; granddaughter, Sarah Jack; grandson, Brandon Shelton; granddaughter, Lauren Shelton; brother, Dr. Russell (Dee) Estes; as well as many nieces and nephews. She was preceded by her parents, husband James, brother Raymond (Geri) Estes, and nephews.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to Jennifer David Shelton, the staff at Generations at Neighbors and Serenity Hospice for their loving and compassionate care of Shirley.
A visitation will be held from 10:00-12:00 p.m., Saturday, September 23, 2023 at Advantage Funeral Home, 7000 W. State St, Rockford, IL 61102 with a graveside service to follow at Willwood Burial Park. To share a condolence, please visit www.advantagerockford.com.