Roosevelt Shelton

Roosevelt Shelton, the tenth child of Florence and Charlie Shelton, was born on April 23, 1934 in Fairfield County, South Carolina. Just as they had done all of his life, Roosevelt’s sisters watched over him as he entered into God’s Kingdom. Our Heavenly Father, in his all-wise, merciful and compassionate grace, called Roosevelt into his loving and eternal presence on the morning of Monday, June 30, 2003.Although Roosevelt had many siblings and special relationships, he considered Mama Shelton, his mother, a friend and confidant. Roosevelt was affectionately referred to as his mother’s “precious jewel.” Roosevelt equally loved both of his parents but there was a very special bond between him and his mother. He took great pleasure in sitting up late at night with his mother as they talked and laughed about the family. Roosevelt never left Mama Shelton’s side until she departed in 1984.As a child, Roosevelt attended the Fairfield County School with his brothers and sisters. Roosevelt gave his life to Christ at an early age and he joined Red Hill Baptist Church. He loved attending church services. He particularly loved all the various preachers and he remembered all of their names. Roosevelt’s family took pleasure in observing how much he enjoyed the church service. He particularly enjoyed the singing. On one occasion, Roosevelt’s sister told him “not to twist and sing so loudly because he would throw the choir off key.” He shared with his sister that, “I can’t help it. I feel good. I’m not singing for the people, I’m singing for the Lord.” Roosevelt also enjoyed listening to the conversations of his family. He would intently listen to them and you would find him laughing and joining in the conversation. Roosevelt loved his family and his family loved him. Roosevelt needed much care throughout his lifetime and his family was always by his side to protect and care for him. Roosevelt would say, “I don’t bother nobody,” and his family would not allow anyone to harm him.In 1977, Roosevelt moved to Baltimore and resided with his oldest sister, Minnie Richmond, who provided excellent care for him. Tender loving care was also provided by his sisters, Daisy Lee Johnson and Willia Mae Johnson and a brother, Johnnie Nelson Shelton. Roosevelt joined the Community Baptist Church of Walbrook and he enjoyed attending the worship services until he became disabled. He particularly enjoyed the songs of the vocal choir.Time cannot efface the love and treasured memories that his loved ones will eternally cherish. Roosevelt leaves an immeasurable void in the hearts of all who knew him. Those remaining to embellish his memory: three sisters, Minnie Richmond, Willia Mae Johnson and Daisy Lee Johnson; five brothers, James, Robert, Johnnie Nelson, Tony, Claude Mack, Charlie (deceased); two brothers-in-law, Benjamin Johnson and Ephraim Johnson; five sisters-in-law, Elizabeth, Emma, Ida Mae, Sarah and Carrie Mae; and a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.

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Roosevelt Shelton

April 23, 1934 - June 30, 2003