Dorothy Elizabeth Shelton

Dorothy Elizabeth Shelton, fondly called “Nana, ” was born on July 18, 1933, in Richmond, VA, to the late Maggie and Alec Benjamin. The youngest of five siblings, she departed this life on August 7, 2025, at the age of 92. A woman devoted to family and faith, she lived with an open heart and a radiant spirit. Nana was known for blending unwavering devotion with infectious laughter, a sharp wit, and a warmth that drew people in. Her strength was matched only by her joy, and she leaves behind a legacy of love, light, and unforgettable moments shared with those fortunate enough to know her. Whether she was offering a wise word, telling a funny story, or just being present with her family, Nana had a way of making everyone feel seen, heard, and loved. She grew up with strong spiritual roots at Third Street Bethel A.M.E. Church, where both her mother and grandmother worshipped. That foundation of faith remained a constant throughout her life. In later years, she became a member of Fifth Baptist Church, where both of her daughters also worshipped. After the pandemic, she attended Abundant Life Church of Christ alongside her daughters and family, continuing to worship. Her faith wasn’t limited to Sundays. It shaped how she lived, how she treated others, and how deeply she loved. Nana was educated in Richmond Public Schools and attended Maggie L. Walker High School. She dedicated many years of service to Handcraft Cleaners before retiring. Her hands may have folded linens, but they also cooked meals, dried tears, cradled babies, offered comfort, and built a home filled with laughter and love. Nana had a special love for games and activities, a passion she joyfully passed down to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Whether it was cards, seek-and-find puzzles, jigsaw puzzles, or bingo nights, she played with enthusiasm and joy, always ready with a wink and a competitive edge. Her home was often filled with the sounds of shuffling cards, TV game shows, and shared laughter as she playfully taunted her family that their quarters were hers. She also treasured her daily television programs; soap operas and game shows were her favorites, and no one dared interrupt her while her stories were on. Nana’s love for her great-grandchildren and great-niece was like running her own little daycare; each child experienced the joy of time spent with Nana. Mornings began with the comforting aroma of grits and corned beef hash cooking on the stove, a delicious start to days filled with laughter and play. Whether they were playing cards or keeping busy during her “stories", Nana’s home was always alive with joy. She kept pictures of all her babies on the wall in the dining room, where games and laughter continued long after the children grew up. She was preceded in death by her parents, Maggie and Alec Benjamin; her beloved husband, Hilliard H. Shelton; her sisters, Pearl Williams (Charles), Clara Henley (Robert), Thelma Benjamin, and Thomasine B. Taylor (Webster); and her great-grandson, Ayden J. Foreman. Nana leaves behind a loving family who will cherish her memory forever. She is survived by his daughters, Shelley D. Moore and Lynette S. Covington (Rondy); her granddaughters, Michelle L. Rollings (Ira), LaTanya M. Foreman (Gary), Ronda N. Covington; her great-grandchildren, DeJon R. Moore, Isaiah A. Rollings, Maya L. Rollings, Mia L. Rollings, Carter A. Olivis, and Camden J. Olivis; and her great-niece Brittany A. Taylor. She also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, church family, neighbors, and friends, all of whom were touched by her grace, humor, and unwavering love. Despite the many changes she witnessed over her nine decades of life, Nana remained grounded in the things that mattered most: faith, family, humor, and love. Her door was always open, her advice always honest, and her spirit always light. She embraced life with an unmatched blend of wisdom and mischief, and her presence made the world feel safer, softer, and more joyful. Though she may no longer be with us in body, Nana’s legacy will live on in every hearty laugh around a dining room table, every family game night, every whispered prayer, and every warm embrace among loved ones. Her life was a testimony to joy, resilience, and unconditional love. She was a beautiful example of a life well-lived.

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Dorothy Elizabeth Shelton

July 18, 1933 - August 7, 2025