Shelton Francis Jones

Shelton Francis Jones, 74, affectionately known as “Shell” or Papa, peacefully departed this life on February 3, 2024, surrounded by family, love, and the memories of a life well-lived. Shelton was preceded in death by his wife Joanna B. Jones, daughters Brenda Jones and Renee’ B. Jeter, and sons Anthony and Dwayne Baskerville. Shelton leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and service. He is survived by his daughters Tonja and Tyronna Jones, Jacqueline Baskerville, Gail Vauters, Wendell Baskerville (Penny); Extended children: Earl and Kevin Taylor, Germaine and Victor Evans; a sister, Brenda Ferebee, and a brother, Oscar Stewart (Heather), many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Shell’s grandchildren have been especially devoted: TyShell Jones, R’Chell Jones and Jerimah Henderson. Also, one son-in-law, two brother-in-laws, a sister-in-law and a host of devoted relatives and friends. Shelton was born on September 8, 1949, in Portsmouth, Virginia, to the late Caroline Riddick Stewart and Thomas Rumble.Shelton's early years were rooted in Atlantic City, where he was raised by his late aunt, Brenda Riddick. Shelton accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior early in his life, laying the foundation for a life devoted to faith, service, and community. Shelton was a graduate of Atlantic High School's Class of 1967 and left home later that year to enlist in the U.S. Army, where he served in the Vietnam War from 1969 to 1971; he received an Honorable Discharge at the end of his military career. Shelton continued his education as a full-time student at J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College, later transferring to Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) where he graduated with his B.S. in Public Communication. Although he worked as an educator for Richmond Public Schools, his most important role was being a hands-on father. Shelton met the love of his life, Joanna Baskerville, and they married in 1969, with him becoming an immediate father to six children; this union also blessed the couple with an additional two daughters. Shelton was a proud member of numerous organizations. As a community leader, Shelton played a pivotal role as a mentor, nurturer, and caregiver to family and close friends. Shelton served in various roles at his church, St. Elizabeth’s Catholic Church, as the church president, hospitality committee and men’s group member. Shell was always willing and ready to help however the church needed.When Shell wanted to retire from his church posts, the priest of the church would not allow it and deemed Shell would serve as an informal “advisor” to the congregation. Shelton worked with The Legal Aid Society and Housing Opportunities Made Equal (HOME) on various projects, including serving on various boards for discrimination to help fight for equal rights with homeowners. He was an Assistant Chief for Elections, a role his daughters would also engage in as adults. Shell also volunteered at Overby Sheppard Elementary School, reading to young children and making charitable donations to local organizations. Shelton was also a nature lover, sharing this joy with his family. He would take the family to Charlottesville to Jones Run and enjoy a day walking the trails then later grilling their dinner. He loved to ride long distances on his bicycle all around the City of Richmond. If you were looking for Shell during the warm weather, you could always find him at Chimborazo Park or James River Park. He loved home and all it represented for him, such as family and faith. If you were part of his “tribe,” then you knew to knock on his back door when coming for a visit. Despite his declining health, Shell faced each day with determination and grace. His personal life was marked by enduring love, nurturing, mentoring. and commitment. Shelton's final days were spent with his devoted children and grandchildren who cared for him until the end, with him in the embrace of devoted family and friends, sharing his favorite shows and making lasting memories. Though we mourn the loss of a remarkable man, Shelton Jones, we celebrate his life—a life marked by faith, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to family, community, and service. May Shell’s memory be a beacon of inspiration for us all.

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Shelton Francis Jones

September 8, 1949 - February 3, 2024