James Rodney Shelton

James Rodney Shelton, age 77, of Gallatin, TN, passed away peacefully on June 30, 2025.

Born on December 5, 1947 in Louisville, Kentucky to James Corbit and Nina Christine, James graduated from Hume-Fogg High School in 1965 and went on to serve his country in the United States Army. During the Vietnam War, he was deployed overseas and carried that spirit of courage and quiet strength with him throughout his life.

After serving his country, James spent 45 faithful years working in facilities and maintenance at Vanderbilt Hospital, where he took pride in contributing to a place that helped so many. His dedication to caring for others extended far beyond his job. He was known for his loyalty, compassion, and down-to-earth nature. He was a friendly, dependable, “do-anything-for-you” kind of man.

James was married to his beloved wife, Karen Shelton, for 26 years. He is survived by Karen; his daughter Lisa (Jacob Compton) and their daughter, Margaret; his granddaughter Ashley (Devon) and great-granddaughter Isabella; and Karen’s daughter Christine Satterfield (Mark) and their sons, Eli and Brock—all of whom he loved dearly and embraced as his own family.

James is also survived by his two brothers, Kenneth Shelton (Sheri, deceased) and their daughters, Kristin and Maggie; and Michael Shelton (Barbara) and their children, Austin and Victoria “Tori.”

James was preceded in death by his first wife, Betty, with whom he shared 25 years of marriage. He faithfully and tenderly cared for her throughout a long illness until her passing. He was also preceded in death by his daughter, Tina Marie.

A true outdoorsman, James found joy in fishing, photography, shooting guns, and playing games, especially when surrounded by God’s creation. He loved being on the water, spending time at the lake, and enjoying homemade meals with those he loved. But his deepest love was for Jesus. He surrendered his life to Christ at an early age and lived as a man of faith, prayer, and Scripture. A longtime member of First Baptist Church Hendersonville, James served others with a quiet strength: always ready to listen, encourage, and point people to Jesus. He had a genuine love for his family, friends, and community, and a heartfelt desire for others to know Christ personally and find a church home where they could grow in their faith.

The family is deeply grateful for the many friends, neighbors, and the Oakley Sunday School class, who walked alongside them with love and support.

Visitation will be held on July 8, 2025 from 11:00-1:00 at Crestview Funeral Home, followed by a service at 1:00, officiated by Pastor Bruce Raley from First Baptist Church Hendersonville.