John Ray Shelton

John Ray Shelton, 80, of Wheaton, IL, passed away on Saturday July 19, 2025. He was born on January 31, 1945, in Fort Dodge, IA, to Merle Shelton and Arlene (nee Doolittle). John is survived by his loving wife of 57 years Barbara (nee Russell). His dear siblings Jane (James) Clark, Martha Beightol, brother-in-law Alan Russell, and sister-in-law Sheryll (John) Luxton. John also leaves behind nine nieces and nephews, nine great nieces and nephews, and one great great niece. John was preceded in passing by; his parents, brother-in-law Merrill Beightol, and nephews Kevin Beightol and Mark Russell. John grew up on a farm near Webster City, Iowa. He attended Webster City High School, class of 1963. John went on to attend Westmar College LeMars, Iowa, in 1967 he graduated with a bachelor's degree in accounting.  While attending college he met the love of his life and future wife Barbara. The two were married on June 15, 1968, in Waterloo IA. John began his working life in 1967 with an accountant position at Arthur Anderson. He later became the Controller for Standard Education in Chicago, where he worked until his retirement in 2012. After John retired, he decided to purchase a winter home in Mesa, AZ. John enjoyed many hobbies during his life. He was passionate about his cars, especially his Yellow Corvette. John also enjoyed working in his garden, fine dining, and traveling both domestically and internationally. John was also a fervent patron of Opera; his favorite production was Verdi’s Il Trovatorre. Johns’ family is planning to hold a Celebration of Life at a later date this year. In lieu of flowers, donations to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital https://www.stjude.org/, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or Dayspring United Methodist Church, 1365 E. Elliot Rd., Tempe, AZ. 85284, would be appreciated.