SNEADS, Fla. — Sara Catherine Shelton, a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend, was called home to be with the Lord Tuesday, Aug. 12, at the age of 92 marking the end of a life extraordinarily well-lived.
A celebration of Catherine’s life and time of reflection for family and friends was held 11 a.m. Friday, Aug. 15, with the service beginning in the chapel of McAlpin Funeral Home. Interment followed the service in Mount Pleasant Cemetery.
Born on January 26, 1933, in Charleston to James E. Peters and Venice Sartin Peters, Catherine's life was a testament to her unwavering faith and her dedication to serving others.
Catherine's early years in Charleston laid the foundation for a life of compassion and care. After graduating from Charleston High School in 1951, she pursued her calling in nursing at Greenwood LeFlore Nursing School, an affiliate of Old Miss. It was during an advanced Psychiatric Training Course at Florida State Hospital in Chattahoochee, Fla. that she met her beloved husband and soulmate, Alvin E. “Gene” Shelton, Sr. The two were united in holy matrimony on April 2, 1954, and embarked on a journey of love, laughter and partnership that would last a lifetime.
With Gene enlisted in the Navy, Catherine began her illustrious nursing career in Virginia. The family eventually settled in Chattahoochee, Fla. in 1962, following Gene's retirement from the Navy. Catherine's professional life flourished at Florida State Hospital, she also served with distinction in various other roles, including Director of Nursing at Gadsden Nursing Home and Gadsden Memorial Hospital. She retired as an RN III - Shift Supervisor in the Forensic Unit of Florida State Hospital in 1997, leaving behind a legacy of 35 years of dedicated service. Her pioneering spirit was evident when she became one of the very first certified Life Flight Nurses, a testament to her courage and commitment to her vocation.
Catherine's Christian faith was the cornerstone of her existence. She imparted wisdom and love as a Sunday school teacher, volunteered tirelessly for Vacation Bible School each summer, and lifted her voice in praise as a member of the 39ers choir. Her devotion to her faith was matched only by her love for her family. The annual trip back to Mississippi was a cherished tradition, as were the Senior Adult trips to Ridgecrest, North Carolina.
A master baker and seamstress, Catherine's cakes and pies were the highlight of many church and work gatherings, and her handmade clothes were crafted with love and care. Her generosity knew no bounds; she was always there to meet the needs of friends and strangers alike, often in quiet, unassuming ways. Her mission-minded spirit and heart for people were evident in everything she did.
Catherine is lovingly remembered by her children, Debbie Shelton Brannan, Alvin E. Shelton, Jr. (Glenda), and Edwin H. Shelton (Debbie); her 11 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren, and 6 great-great-grandchildren.
While she was predeceased by her parents, James E. Peters and Venice Sartin Peters; her husband of 56 years, Gene Shelton; her sister, Barbara Ann Peters; her son, Terry Wayne Shelton, and a son in law, Stan Brannan, Sr., her family is comforted by the knowledge that she is now reunited with her loved ones in the presence of the Lord.
Catherine's life was a portrait of the virtues she held dear: kindness, generosity, and selflessness. Her memory will be cherished by her family, her church, her community, and her former co-workers, all of whom were touched by her gentle spirit and loving heart. As we celebrate Catherine's journey to her eternal home, we are reminded of the impact one life, lived in service to God and others, can have on the world. She was truly a servant of Christ, and her legacy will continue to inspire those who knew her for generations to come.
For any memorials Catherine’s family asks that you consider a contribution to Big Bend Hospice Foundation 1723 Mahan Center Blvd. Tallahassee, FL 32308 or St. Jude Children’s Hospital at ALSAC/St. Jude Children's Research Hospital 501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105.
