Jill Langston Obituary
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Harrell Funeral Home of Austin website to view the full obituary.
Jill Suzanne Shelton Langston passed away peacefully in her sleep on September 6, 2025, at the age of 76, surrounded by the comfort of her home, family, and animals. After a long and courageous journey with cancer, she left behind a legacy of love, honesty, and devotion.
Born on September 4, 1949, in Houston, Texas, Jill was influenced by the rich cultures of Texas and Louisiana. She was known for her bold honesty and sharp wit, never one to sugarcoat and often a little spicy. She lived with integrity, knowing what she wanted in life and pursuing it with courage.
Jill married John Gerald Langston in 1987, and together they shared nearly 30 years of love and commitment until his passing in 2016. She was a loving mother to John Abraham Langston and Lauren Elizabeth Langston, and a caring stepmother to Thomas Andrew Langston and Shenandoah Jay Langston.
She was preceded in death by her husband John, her parents, Jack Shelton Jr. and Peggy Joyce McMurray Shelton, her brother, Jack Shelton III, and her step-grandson, Thomas Clayton Langston.
Jill studied Engineering at Louisiana State University, distinguishing herself in a field with few women at the time. Her career as a Civil Engineer was marked by many accomplishments, most notably her work in helping design the Circuit of the Americas Formula 1 racetrack in Austin, Texas. For Jill, engineering was more than a profession; it was a passion she poured her heart into, always with an eye toward creating something lasting for her family and community.
Jill lived her Christian faith as a Presbyterian with grace, wisdom, and compassion. She was known for her generosity, often planning ahead with a giving spirit that touched many lives. Her love for cats and dogs was constant throughout her life, and she cherished their companionship.
Her zest for life found expression in many ways. In her younger years she loved scuba diving and water skiing, and throughout her life she found joy in gardening, swimming, solving puzzles, drawing, writing poetry, and reading. She cherished the beauty of nature at parks and beaches, and the simple richness of being present with family and friends.
Jill will be remembered as a woman of courage, authenticity, and generosity. Her spirit touched all who knew her, and her legacy of love will endure in the hearts of her children, stepchildren, extended family, and friends. She will be deeply missed, and her memory will remain a blessing and an inspiration to all who knew her.