Richard J. Shelton

Richard, also known as Dick, was born in Aliceville, AL to Ernest Eugene and Martha Ramsey Shelton on Dec 4, 1921. He married Mary Hatajik on January 11, 1947 at St Mathias Church, Natrona, PA; graduated from the University of Alabama (Roll Tide!) with a major in Chemistry, then worked for Norfolk Southern Railway for 42 years as a Chemist.

Once retired, volunteering became like a 2nd career for Dick. He was a Senior Volunteer for the Alexandria Police Department for many years. As a 20 year resident of Greenspring Village, he was an active volunteer on many projects -- best known for his involvement with the community's Computer Club and the Investment Club. He loved to dance and was a regular participant with the Friday Night Dance group at Greenspring, attending weekly events until the age of 96.

Dick is preceded in death by his wife of 58 years, Mary, and his son, Richard Jr, as well as his parents.

Also fondly known as Pop, or PaPa, Dick is survived by his son John (Susan) and his granddaughter Suzanne (Mitch) and two great granddaughters, Maddie and Maci.

Pop will be remembered for his love of pecan pies, and long fast boat rides along the Potomac and Chesapeake Bay; stories of his travels in younger years; the beanie hat which became a standard part of his daily attire; his pride for the house he built on Upland Drive; the shop in the basement where he repaired the neighborhood TVs and radios; many trips to the “rivah house” where his once very sharp memory knew what was around each bend long before we got there; and an extensive collection of train memorabilia.

A grave side service will be held at 1PM on Tuesday, Jan 5, 2021 at Mount Comfort Cemetery, 6600 S Kings Hwy, Alexandria, VA 22306. Thank you to Demaine Funeral Home in Springfield for handling the arrangements. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Dementia Society of America or the Alzheimer’s Association.

Pop’s family wishes to extend their sincere thanks to the staff at Garden Ridge, and the Home Support team at Greenspring Village, for their support for Richard over this last year.