June 23, 1935 - March 10, 2024
Robert “Bob” Neal Shelton, 88, passed from this life on March 10, 2024, in Enid, OK. He was born on June 23, 1935, in Miami, OK, to Alva Robert and Bertha A. (Cox) Shelton. He grew up on the family homestead north of Buffalo, OK, and attended New Hope School, a one-room schoolhouse close to the homestead, Buffalo schools, and finally Leavenworth High School, where he was Company Commander in the ROTC. Bob graduated from Bacone Jr. College with an Associate's degree before enlisting in the Naval Reserve in July 1953, serving on the USS Fred T. Berry, the USS Norris, and the USS Yosemite. Some of his fondest memories during his time in the Navy were watching Jackie Kennedy water ski off the coast of Rhode Island and visiting the Mediterranean. Bob was honorably discharged on July 6, 1962.
On May 9, 1969, Bob married the love of his life, Earlyne Thompson, and together they raised two sons, Richard and Stan. Soon to follow were the lights of Bob’s life, granddaughters April and Morgan. Bob cherished his granddaughters and was immensely proud of his great-granddaughters' achievements studying abroad and traveling around Europe.
Bob’s life was characterized by his dedication to his family, especially his wife. He was an avid OU fan and loved to tease his granddaughter April, a die-hard Texas fan, during the Red River Rivalry. He enjoyed collecting coins, inheriting his father’s collection, and stamps. Bob’s other joy was receiving postcards from around the world from his great-granddaughter Aspen. Bob dedicated his life to Gold Spot Dairy, then Hiland Dairy, where he retired in 2000 as Branch Manager. He touched the lives of many through his work, none more than his protégé, Billy Rehder.
Bob, sadly, was preceded in death by his son Richard and his parents.
Loved ones left behind are his wife, Earlyne; son, Stan; granddaughters April Martin and husband Chad, Morgan Shelton and partner Alvin Grants; great-granddaughter Aspen Milledge; sister-in-law Darlene Thompson; and caregivers Billy and Linda Rehder.
A graveside service will be held on March 14, 2024, at 2:00 pm, at the Mausoleum in Memorial Park Cemetery in Enid, OK, with Chaplain Matt Miles officiating and arrangements by Anderson-Burris Funeral Home & Crematory. All friends and family are invited to attend and celebrate Bob’s remarkable life.
Condolences can be made to the family online at Andersonburris.com. Honored to be recognized nationally, the past 6 years, for the Pursuit of Excellence award. Because family matters, let us take care of yours. We are proud to own the only crematory in Garfield county and ensure your loved one receives the care and respect they deserve while never leaving our care. Visit 3002 N. Van Buren, Enid, OK 73703. Call: (580) 233-2700.
Obituaries are posted, in part, due to the generosity of The Commons.
A United Methodist Retirement Community
Tours: 301 S. Oakwood | (580) 237-6164
Enid's Only Faith-based, Not-For-Profit, Complete Continuous Care Community. Including Long Term Care, Skilled Nursing, Memory Care, Assisted Living, Independent Living Apartments and Townhomes.
