Virginia Shelton Obituary

Virginia Dene Benedict Shelton, the daughter of a ranching family, was born in Midland Texas on February 4, 1932. Her childhood years were spent in West Texas and Eastern New Mexico, graduating from Fort Sumner High School in 1949 and from New Mexico A & M in 1953. Following graduation, she worked for the Corps of Engineers at WSMR for one year. Virginia was a dedicated public school teacher teaching grades 4th through high school. She found great joy in teaching and was often approached by students years later, with the student often saying, ' Mrs. Shelton, you were the best teacher I ever had!" and always ended with a hug. Virginia married Milton Shelton on May 25, 1955 at St. James Episcopal Church, in Mesilla Park, NM. Milton was also a public school educator for his entire career. Virginia and Milton loved to entertain and to travel. Their yearly turkey roast was legendary and looked forward to early by friends and family alike. Born to this union were Judith Gibson (Clay), Jennifer Terrazas (Manny), Paul (Jodi Shelton) and Kerry Provencio (Randy). Oldest twin daughter Judith preceded both of her parents in death on January 26, 1985. 10 grandchildren: Andrew, Christopher, Joshua, Kathryn, Janelle, Lauren, Lyndsay, Aaron, Kadi and Sydni and 3 great grand-daughters, Allison, Brianna and Aubrey all survive Virginia. One of Virginia's greatest joy's was watching her own children become parents and in turn watching these grandchildren grow into successful young adults. Upon her retirement from teaching, she became a very active volunteer, serving in many different capacities. Such as: the soup kitchen, delivering books to the Home Bound for Branigan Library, and she served as the librarian, gardener and office aide at St. James Church for many years. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 pm on Saturday June 4, 2011 at St. James Episcopal Church with Rev. Dr. Nicholas Funk, Rector officiating. In lieu of flowers, friends and family are asked to give to Mesilla Valley Hospice, Las Cruces, NM or to their favorite charity. Many heartfelt thanks go out to the many caregivers who took care of Virginia during her illness: Dr. Wash, Laura, Andrea, Debbie, Dr. Garcia, Terry, Lisa, Home Instead Caregivers, and lastly all the wonderful providers at Hospice-truly angels in the way they care for each patient and family member, as if we were their own family members. Special thanks go out to dear friends, Carol Baker, Terry Miller and Judy Zimmerman. Arrangements by Getz Funeral Home and Getz Family Crematory corner of Solano and Bowman Ave., Las Cruces, NM 88001. 575-526-2419. To sign the local online guest book go to www.GetzCares.com

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Published by Las Cruces Sun-News on Jun. 2, 2011.

Memories and Condolences
for Virginia Shelton

8 Entries

Melissa Cuaron

June 3, 2011

Mrs. Shelton was my 5th grade teacher at Valley View years ago, but she is one teacher I will never forget! She was always so warm and loving! I was very fotunate to have her as a teacher! My deepest sympathy goes out to the Shelton family.

Kathi Jackson

June 3, 2011

I am so sorry for your loss. I am one of your neighbors 5804 Leasburg. I would see Virginia out walking every morning and we would always wave or stop and chat a minute. Please call if there is anything we can do for you.

Sarah Q Stevens

June 3, 2011

Mrs. Shelton was one of the most wonderful women that I have had the pleasure of meeting and knowing. She was my teacher at Valley View for 4th grade and 5th grade. She was one of my all time favorite teachers and would always give me a hug and ask what I was up to when I would see her around town. She always noted to whomever she was with what a bright and wonderful person that I was. My thoughts and prayers are with her family!! The world has truly lost an angel, but they must have needed a very special one in heaven!!

Priscilla Baldonado

June 3, 2011

Mrs. Shelton was my 5th grade teacher at Vallew View Elementary a long time ago...I remember how happy she always used to be. I also remember her reaction the day President Reagan was shot, she was a wonderful teacher and human being and I was lucky to have had her as my teacher!

Ruben DeLaO

June 2, 2011

My family has been next door neighbors with the Shelton's for more than 25 years. Although we were not family, Milton and Virginia sure went out of their way to make us feel like we were. Every time I came into town, she would remind my mother to “make sure he comes over to visit before he leaves”. From giving me advice on life to opinions of current events, she made every effort to make my family, and most recently my wife, feel like part of her extended family. We will certainly miss her and the wonderful light she shed upon us. I will definitely miss our talks at the stone wall which separated our yards.

Gina Selga

June 2, 2011

Dear Jennifer, Paul and Kerry, I will keep you guys in my prayers. I am so sorry for your loss.
Your old neighbor on Rio Grande Street,
Sincerely,
Gina Franco Selga

Pearie (Lacy) Bruder

June 2, 2011

I was fortunate to have Mrs. Shelton as my 5th grade teacher, at Valley View elementary, in 1980. I remember, vividly, how upset she was when Reagan was shot, doing the 'BUNNY HOP' in the cafeteria, and so much more. I can still remember the Gettysburg address because of how she taught. She was a multifaceted teacher and person, who had this quiet grace about her. I am so grateful to have known her.

Art Fountain

June 2, 2011

To the family:
Virginia has been a light in my life almost from the time I stepped foot inside St. James. She contributed greatly to the sense if family I have found there. Her genuine concern for her church family and beyond- the many people in need she served with her time and generosity- continues to be an inspiration to me and, I'm sure, her many friends. It has been a pleasure to meet her daughter Jennifer and her husband. I offer them, and others in her family, my prayers and support. Our loss- Heaven's gain.
Art Fountain

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