Bill was born in Madison County, NC, January 15, 1927, to the late Henry and Dora Edmonds Shelton. 

He was a retired veteran having served with the United States Navy and had tours in World War II, the Korean Conflict and Vietnam. 

After retiring from the Navy, he worked and retired with Civil Service. 

He loved the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing, as well as, gardening and working in his yard. 

In addition to God and country, Bill loved his family, who was very important in his life.  In addition to his parents, Bill was preceded in death by his wife, Mirian Shelton and brothers, Mack, Jimmy and Jack Shelton. 

Surviving are his daughter, Linda Shelton Joyner; brothers, Carl Shelton, Kyle Shelton, Douglas Shelton and Frank Shelton; sisters, Hazel Irby and Margaret Wallace; granddaughters, Sophia Gums and Nicole Elliott and husband, Larry. Also surviving is his great grandson, Robert Shelton Gums. 

The family will receive friends Wednesday, October 4, 2017, at Hockaday Funeral & Cremation Service from 6:30-8:30 pm and all other times at the home of Linda Joyner, 1504 Pruden St., Roanoke Rapids. 

Rev. Daniel West will conduct a graveside service at Olive Branch Cemetery, Portsmouth, VA, Thursday, October 5, 2017, at 11:00 am.

Online condolences may be sent to  www.hockadayfs.com