Julia, sending you my deepest condolences. May your abundance of memories bring you comfort and peace during this time. I am always available if I can help or support you in any way.

Jeannie Chun

I didn’t know Jude or John for very long, but I liked them both so much that they still have a really special place in my memories. I’m a very anxious person, and John immediately put me at ease when I met him. He was such a relaxed and genuine person that you couldn’t help but like him. When I went on a camping trip with Jude, I was incredibly nervous but John cracked a ton of jokes on the car ride there and totally helped me calm down. I miss Jude and John, and I’ll definitely miss being around such a nice, comforting, funny person. I hope the family is doing well. Rest in peace.

Faith Lawson

I am so sorry for your loss. Jeff, Joe, Kate and I will be thinking of your family and sending you prayers.

Tracy Kueter

I feel blessed to have had John as a Ragbrai teammate and friend. I loved his outlook on life and the way he shared it with others. It was obvious that he adored his family and enjoyed the company of his mother. I will miss shooting the breeze with him and his stories that always made me smile.

Susan Kramer

Julia, Jude, and Finn I am so glad that you all walked into our lives when Jude and Rylee were in Jr High. We all became fast friends. I loved hearing stories of how when Ry went over you would all cook. She enjoyed her time with you. I also will never forget how welcome she felt at your house. Rylee saw John not that long ago when he was shopping at Theisen’s and he chatted it up with Ry. My heart breaks for you all. I am so sorry when sorry just isn’t enough. We are all thinking about you, please know that we are sending you our love.

Holly Newville

I just wanted to send you all my love. He will leave behind a big hole in the world. ❤️

Rachel M Williams

My heart is broken for the family. John was a light and a force. I’m a better person for having known him and loved him. Godspeed.

Lara Sexton

John and I were friends at UGA. I remember his smile fondly and am glad to see that his life on the farm and the miles he rode on his bike clearly made him happy. Julia, I am so sorry for your loss. May his memory be a blessing to you.

Gwen Kaminsky

Julia–I am so sorry for your loss. If there is anything I can do, please let me know. Joe

Joseph Cullen

So sorry for your family’s loss.

Nora Royer

I knew John while attending UGA. John was quite handsome, articulate and had a smile that could light-up-a-room! When John entered a room, he needed no introduction, as his voice and wit would give him away. Always uplifting! Fly with many Angels John—Soar!

Amy Edris Teague

When I think of John, I think of many things…his passion for biking, his sense of humor, his excitement over the farm, his “fight dystopia” bumper sticker, his adventurous spirit, how he always had his bowling bag with him, and the way the room became lighter when he was there having a beer with us. It goes without saying how deeply he loved his family, but what I would like to honor is his incredible generosity. When I was working at the school, John was a regular volunteer pretty much running the desk at LCA as well as the absolute preferred chaperone by both teachers and students. Our families had many great get-togethers over the years, including Shaker Village, the corn maze, Barkley Lake, and Leitchfield. And many firsts – Molly had her first week away from home with you at Hilton Head, her first flight alone to Iowa and her first Starbucks with you. Our kids became closer as you all were moving from Louisville to Iowa City. Whether we came there or you met us in western KY in the camper, there are a few things that were always true: He may not have been big on advance planning, but things always had a way of working out. I remember how laid back he was and still aspire to that. He was easy to be around and the fun usually started when he arrived! More than once, he volunteered to drive Molly seven hours back to Kentucky just so the kids could have more time together. He didn’t mind the driving, but more than that, he knew how much it meant to Jude. This is such a great loss. I know you will cherish the memories, but I hope you watch for the signs. In the least expected moments, he will be there, reminding you that he will always be with you.

Leigh Anne Preston

Julia and family, Words cannot express my sincerest condolences for your loss. All of my love and prayers are with you now and in the coming days. I did not know John well but from what I can see here alone, he was a special man. Please call on me if you need an ear, a cup of coffee, call coverage, or anything else at all.

Gina Lockwood

Julia- I wish I could give you a big hug and convey my sympathy for your loss. An e-hug will have to suffice. You and your family are in my prayers

Marygrace Elson

I’ve met few people in the world as honest as John. What you saw is what you got. I always admired that about him and it made him a pleasure to be around. He will be missed, but I really do appreciate the time I spent with him.

Andy Feider

Julia, I was so sorry to hear about the death of John. I have been out of town with my fathers death and not sure I will able to attend the services. I want you to know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. If I can help you in any way please feel free to contact me.

Laura Phearman

I had the pleasure of working with Mr Shelton very early in my career as an educator. John made me feel welcomed but also was a great colleague. Anything I need or question was never too much. He was so cool and chill in comparison to my worrisome personality. He was a great man and I’m sad to know he has transitioned. Much love and gratitude to the family for sharing him with me

Charles Stanley

John was one of the kindest, most fun people I’ve ever met. I remember being a resident and it was often a fast paced, stress-filled world, but when John and Julia were around, it was like home. I remembered what it was like to be a normal person. I remembered what life could be like, outside of the hospital. John brought such a relaxing, calm, peaceful presence with him and he had such a great sense of humor. I’ll never forget him. I’m so very grateful for the chance I got to know him and spend time with him. Julia and family, I’m holding you close to my heart and covering you with my prayers.

Lisa White Griffith

Julia, I am very sorry for your loss. I never had a chance to meet with John, he sounds like fantastic man by reading all the comment. We will pray for your family. I will not be able to attend his life celebration due to my family matters but will attend through streaming.

Hisakazu Hoshi

What a great picture of John. That’s how I picture him, arms wide and both feet jumping into life. I admired his thirst for finding his own path and appreciating the journey. My condolences to you Julia and Finn.

Ed Novak

As I am sitting in my house, remiss that I cannot physically be with everyone today; I, also, have not gotten ready for the online event. But I smile to myself because I know that even in pajamas and my teeth not brushed, John would not have cared. He was a take-you-as-you-are kind of guy. He was always there with a welcoming smile and made you feel accepted, no matter what.

Jessica Thomas

Jude and I have been best friends since 5th grade when we met. I was a shy kid and the first time I went over to Jude’s house, John welcomed me and immediately made me laugh about so many things. I went on a camping trip with Jude, Finn, John, and Faith and I was nervous because I didn’t like camping but as soon as I stepped in the car, John made jokes that had me crying because I was laughing so hard. He reminded me to take my medicine at the time I had to take it and I had a great time. Jude invited me to Hilton Head in 6th grade and it was my first week away from home that wasn’t summer camp. In the car we played the picnic game and we laughed for hours. He was shocked when I said I had never seen Star Wars so the minute we got to the condo, he put on Star Wars: A New Hope and made steak and mashed potatoes and that was when Jude and I began our journey as “padawans.” On the way back to Kentucky, John stopped at Starbucks (which I had never had) and ordered Jude and I caramel apple spices. He said my name was Edwina and I’ll never forget it. This is a huge loss but I’ll never forget the memories I made with Jude and John. May he Rest In Peace.

Molly Preston

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I really enjoyed getting to know John a little when you were in Louisville. He was a great guy, and so interesting to talk to. He was always one of the bright spots at division family gatherings. I wish I had the opportunity to get to know him better. Elizabeth and I are so sorry for your loss.

David Foley

We are so sorry for your loss. John was such a vibrant human being, he was joyful, adventurous, curious, caring, and devoted to his family and friends. An amazing father and husband. He was the consummate host, great cook, and we so enjoyed all the gatherings that he organized. He lived life to its fullest, loved and took care of Julia, raised 2 beautiful children, and had a wonderful and happy life. It was a privilege to know him. We will miss him.

Sonia and Joel

I wanted to express my deepest condolences. I am very sorry that I could not attend I have been helping my wife with her mother who was just discharged from UIHC yesterday.

Jimmy Windsor

Dear Julia, the celebration of life yesterday was all of that and more. The goal of everyone to personify John’s big personality and wonderfulness came resoundingly through and made those of us who did not know him quite as well wish we had. It succeeded in giving us a taste of the generosity, the humor, and also the very cultured human being hiding inside the oftentimes informal exterior, and the work ethic that made you and he such a great team and enhanced the spirit of your family. Thank you for sharing and for giving us all a glimpse into the farm he loved so much.

Mary Fallat and Tom Walker

I worked with Julia in the Children’s operating room and had the opportunity to field a call or two for her from this loving man. I never got to know him, but could tell just over the phone how much he respected and cared for his wife and family. I am so very sorry for this loss. My heart aches for Julia, Finn, and Jude. The description of his life depicts a man who knew the meaning of happiness and strived to achieve and share this meaning in all he did. I can tell that Julia, Finn, and Jude have a strong support system, which is key to moving forward. Stay close, speak of John often, laugh and cry, and know that you were blessed to have such a wonderful husband, father, and role model in your lives. It will be so very hard, but eventually you will be able to smile instead of cry every time you think of him. My heartfelt condolences go out to all who knew John, but especially to his wife and children, to whom he dedicated his life.

Jody Meyer

Hey Julia and family: We were lucky to have known you and been friends with your whole family in Nashville together. Paul and John worked together for a short time when he was working for Vanderbilt Children’s, so we became friends and got to hang out with your sweet family (& the Goudys! – remember the Easter egg hunt when the kids couldn’t find all the eggs in our yard?). John was always so fun and intelligent- quirky in the best way! – and we are so glad to have been his friend. Wish we could give you guys a big hug and listen to you guys talking about him. Electronic condolences will have to do. Love Anne-Marie, Paul, and Becca

Anne-Marie Hain

Dear Julia, Finn and Jude – We remember fondly how welcoming your Dad was when we went to Rule Number One farm for the summer party. It’s not how many words we have exchanged, but his smile and warm demeanor that made all of us feel like we were home. His willingness to give to others will always be cherished. Much love.

Kathy Lee-Son

Such Sad Sad news. He was the one who told me to go to Med School to be a Doctor years ago while we were sitting at the bar in Neighbor’s Pub. Always wished he was still around ATL to hang out in his most John like way. Never will forget him. One of a Kind

Steve Hodes

Dr. Shelton, there are no words for the whole left for you and your family. Your husband is clearly a tremendous soul. We think of you and your family with love and hope that your thoughts fill with the beauty of his life and that hurt fades in time. With love, Ruchi and Jonathan

Ruchi and Jonathan

I am so sorry to learn of John’s death. He and I spent time together during the years he represented DFCS in Fulton Juvenile Court. I remember when he met Julia and how smitten and happy he was!! Many of my funny stories (both those that had a gem of truth John shared and those that were just funny) about our court days star John. We old timers still talk about him when we get together. He was a good man with a marvelous and unique sense of humor and a real zest for life. My thoughts are with you and I pray that you will be comforted and find peace.

Vivian Egan

One day I hope to have lived a life and treated my fellow humans well enough to deserve an obituary as beautiful as John’s. Julia – my thoughts are with you, your sons and the rest of those dear to John.

Alyssa Throckmorton