Rocky Shelton

Rocky C. Shelton, 65, of Washington passed away on Monday, September 9, 2024, at OSF St.Francis Medical Center in Peoria.

He was born on August 26, 1959, in Peoria, Illinois, the son of J.C. Shelton and Audrey J. Hutchcraft Shelton.

Rocky is survived by his son, Kevin C. Shelton; his daughter-in-law, Bethany M. Graham; his two grandchildren, Raquel L. Shelton and Tanner L. Zigenhorn, and his nieces and nephews, Jessica D. Evans, Heather L. White, Jasper Evans, Gabriel Thornquist and Traxton Renfroe. Rocky was preceded in death by both of his parents and one sister, Sheila D. White Shelton.

Rocky worked at Wabco in Peoria, Illinois, before transitioning to Morton Metal Craft in Morton, IL. He began his career as press brake operator and through his years of dedication to his company and his resounding work ethic, he moved up steadily and became one of the company's only Manufacturing Engineers to hold that position without having a formal degree. His mastery of his profession contributed greatly to the successful years that Morton MetalCraft spent as a leader in its industry.

Many people recall Rocky's talents on the baseball diamond as a kid. He excelled at baseball, especially at the position of catcher from his time playing as a young kid for the N.T.R.A, and eventually on the high school baseball team representing the Washington Panthers. His passion for baseball was evident as he continued to stay involved in the sport by becoming "Coach Rocky" and coaching his son and others in the N.T.R.A baseball program. Coach Rocky reprised his role in 2023 assisting his son and coaching his grandson.

Rocky also enjoyed professional sports and it was known to all who knew him, especially watching his beloved St. Louis Cardinals and Green Bay Packers with his dear friends Mike Graham, Bob Boatright, Mark and Lynn Stalnaker, and Brad Reid. One would be hard pressed to find a more dedicated fan of the Cardinals or Packers, and he was provided much joy and satisfaction when talking about the Packers domination over the Chicago Bears with the Packers having a record of 18-2 over the last decade (including a current 10-0 run).

Besides work and sports, Rocky was best known for his infectiously fun and loving personality as well as his dependability. His love for his family was undeniable, and there was no question on how much Rocky adored his family. His unique kinship with his father J.C. was special and was matched only by the equally close relationship he shared with his own son. However, neither J.C. nor Kevin had Rocky wrapped around their fingers like his granddaughter, Raquel. Rocky's grandchildren called him "Papa" and Raquel was absolutely the most special girl in her Papa's world; likewise, it was very clear that Papa's close relationship with his grandson was on track to be remarkable, and Tanner was Papa's little buddy of whom he was so proud!

Rocky will be greatly missed. Evidence of this is noticeable by the outpouring of support that has been pouring in over social media and other traditional methods. Rocky's family finds great comfort knowing that Rocky was baptized, saved, and had put his faith and trust in the Lord Jesus Christ. There is no doubt that he now rests comfortably in the arms of his Savior in the presence of his loved ones.

Cremation rites have been accorded. A memorial visitation will be at Mason-White Funeral Home Friday, September 20, 2024, from 4 pm until 6 pm. A memorial service will follow at 6 pm at the funeral home. A celebration of life will be held October 12, 2024 at the V.V.I, also known as the Bunker, and formerly known as the Club in Sunnyland. Mason-White Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Washington has been entrusted with arrangements. Flowers can be sent to the funeral home or purchased on the Mason-White website.