Charles Henry Shelton, 79, of Fernandina Beach passed away Tuesday, March 30, 2021 at St. Vincent’s Medical Center, Southside, in Jacksonville.

Born in Plymouth, North Carolina he was the son of the late Charles Henry and Nellie Spruill Shelton. Mr. Shelton and his family moved to Fernandina Beach when he was two weeks old.

He graduated from Fernandina Beach High School and proudly served his country in the Army National Guard. He became the youngest Master Sergeant in the Florida National Guard at the time.

At the age of 18 he began what would be a 50-year career with Florida Public Utilities reading electric meters. He would hold various positions with the company. He retired as the General Superintendent.

Always active in the community, Mr. Shelton was the first volunteer firefighter on the south end of the island. Through the years he served in clubs and on boards including multiple terms as President of the Rotary Club and the Chamber of Commerce.

He obtained his Captain’s license through the Coast Guard. He dearly loved spending time on the water and especially sailing. He enjoyed varied activities such as mountain climbing and quiet times reading or simply sitting on the dock watching the sunset. He travelled extensively and spent large amounts of time with his son, Jacques. They traveled to such places as the North Pole and the Grand Canyon.

Mr. Shelton was dearly loved by all who knew him. He was a larger-than-life figure who was always learning, always thinking and always progressing while staying concrete in his core values.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his sisters, Jean, Betty and Janet.

He leaves behind his son, Jacques Shelton of Fernandina Beach, his long time companion, Mary Jordan of Fernandina Beach as well as Jacques’ mother, Verla Shelton.

There will be a visitation Monday, April 5, 2021 from 5:00 until 7:00 PM at Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, April 6, 2021 beginning at 1:00 PM in the Burgess Chapel of Oxley-Heard Funeral Directors with Chaplain Jackie Hayes officiating.

He will be laid to rest at Bosque Bello Cemetery.

Those desiring may make donations in his memory to the Boy Scouts of America.