Obituary of Mary A. Shelton

Mary Alice Gilbert Shelton, age 92 of Pittsgrove, NJ passed peacefully into the hands of the Lord April 7th, 2023. Many simply knew her as “Mom” Shelton. Mary was born in Pocahontas, Virginia, the daughter of a coal miner. She was the daughter of Garnett & Sadie Musick Gilbert and the sister to Barnes, Clarence, Garnett Jr, Gladys, Reba, & Agnes. She moved to Millville, NJ at the age of 16 to work at Armstrong Cork Company Glass House, where she met her lifelong love of 68 years and became Mrs. Arnold Shelton. Arnold preceded her in death in 2020. Together, they had 6 children: Arnold Shelton Jr., Allan Shelton, Terry Shelton, Lisa Shelton Toman, and Michelle Shelton Hamilton. Her son Barry Shelton preceded her in death as well in 1970, whom she will be laid alongside to rest. She was also preceded in death by her grandson Kevin Shelton and great grandson Cole Shelton. Mary leaves behind 11 grandchildren, 9 great grandchildren, 1 great-great grandchild, and many nieces and nephews. Mary decided to be a stay-at-home mom to her children. In her 40s and 50s she worked at Halco in Pittsgrove & Vineland, as well as a lunch lady in the Pittsgrove School District. She was also a long-time member of Centerton Freewill Baptist Church. She taught many generations in Sunday school and youth group. For the past 10 years she has been a devout member of Norma Baptist Church. She enjoyed Sunday and Wednesday worship services and Sunday dinners with her church family. Dinners and shopping with her granddaughters and great granddaughters always put a smile on her face. She had a green thumb for orchids, Christmas cacti, and violets that were envied by all. She will forever be remembered for her beautiful smile and being the best dressed lady in the room. Funeral services will be held at the Norma Baptist Church, 771 Gershel Avenue, Elmer on Friday morning, April 14th at 11:00 AM. Interment will take place at Willow Grove United Methodist Church Cemetery following the services. Friends will be received at the PADGETT FUNERAL HOME, 1107 State Highway 77, Upper Deerfield Township on Thursday evening from 5:00 to 7:00 PM.