John Avery Shelton

John Avery Shelton, 85, of Delano passed away Tuesday, March 13, 2018 at his home. Born on September 5, 1932 to the late Zeb and Nelia Shelton, he was a native and lifelong resident of Polk County and a member of Archville Baptist Church.   He was previously employed at the U.S. Forestry Service and enjoyed fishing, camping and spending time with his family and friends.

In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by his sisters, Beadie Barnett, Teezie Greggs, Tootsie Painter, Bertha Plumley and Marie Harden; and his son, John” Catfish” Shelton.

Survivors include his loving wife of 65 years, Mildred Winget Shelton; sons, Bobby (Jeanie) Shelton of Benton, Avery Shelton of Delano, Tommy (Tina) Shelton of Old Fort, and Zeb (Vickie) Shelton of Benton; sixteen grandchildren; thirty-three great- grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews, and extended family.

Funeral services will be conducted at 4 p.m. Thursday, March 15, 2018 in the chapel of Higgins Funeral Home with the Reverend Johnny Townsend officiating. Interment will follow in Delano Cemetery.

His family will receive friends from 2-4 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home prior to the service.

We invite you to send a message of condolence and view the Shelton family guestbook at www.higginsfuneral.com.