MSG Shelton Lee King, USA (Ret.)
Master Sergeant Retired Shelton Lee King was born in Shaw, Mississippi on March 16, 1935 to Bernel and Rosie Lee King.
In 1957, Shelton embarked on a long and challenging career in the United States Army. After basic training, Shelton was stationed in Germany and then at Fort Carson, Colorado. It was in Colorado Springs that he met then married his wife of 50 years, Elizabeth Ann Walker and began their family. His travels with the military took him to places such as a combat tour in Vietnam, Maryland, another tour in Germany, Virginia, California, and Korea. In 1978, after twenty one years of service, he retired from the U.S. Army. His awards included the Meritorious Service medal, the Army Commendation Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal with one Bronze Service Star, the Vietnam Campaign Medal with “60” Device, and the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm. After retiring from the military, he returned to Colorado Springs and began a second career as a civilian at Fort Carson. He retired again in 1999 after working another twenty one years.
Shelton was a dedicated member of Friendship Missionary Baptist Church where he worked in many capacities. He faithfully served as a Vice Chairman of the Deacon Ministry. He also served as the President and Director of the Senior Usher Ministry, a member of the Male Chorus, as a Sunday School Teacher, and as a member of the Brotherhood Ministry.
Shelton moved on from this life on February 13, 2012. He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth “Ann” King; two sons: Colonel Retired Anthony (wife, Donna) King of New Orleans, Louisiana and Sergeant First Class Retired Raymond “Marvin” (wife, Witne) King of West Point, New York; six grandchildren Michael King and David King of New Orleans, Raymond King and Teisha King of El Paso, Texas, Jasmine King and Gabrielle King of West Point; his mother Rosie Pearson of Alton, Illinois; three sisters, Betty Griffin of Houston, Texas, Shirley “Ann” Thomas of Alton, Illinois and Sheila Williams of Alton, Illinois; one brother Terry Pearson of Alton, Illinois; plus a host of brother-in-laws, sister-in-laws, cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.
Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, February 21, 2012 at Friendship Baptist Church, 633 East Dale Street. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the 11:00 am service at the church. Interment with Army honors will follow at Memorial Gardens Cemetery.
Shelton leaves behind a legacy of helping people and was a true example of how to take care of your family. He will be dearly missed by all.