Virgil Wilbert Shelton

On Saturday, November 19^th, Virgil W. Shelton, went to be with the Lord at the age of ninety-eight.  

He was born in Jacksonville, AR, on November 14^th, 1924, son of the late John and Zola Mae Shelton. He is survived by his daughter, Beverly Thompson (Bob); grandchildren Randall Wright (Ethan), Robin Connell (Patrick), Rebecca Smith (Chad); nephews, Kenneth Shelton (Mary), Billy Wayne Shelton (Debbie), Steve Shelton, Linda Williamson (Robert); five great-grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews, and a host of friends. In addition to his parents, Virgil was preceded in death by wife, Alice Louise Shelton; son, John Lynn Shelton; and brother, Billy Ray Shelton.

Virgil served in the U.S. Navy during World War II as a radio operator, and upon his return attended Draugh’s business school, where he studied banking.  Virgil went on to spend decades finding success in various business ventures, including founding “Rest in Peace Cemetery” with his late wife, Alice.  He was a tenacious and savvy businessman, and rather he was selling cars, selling real estate, or investing money, Virgil was known to say, “it’s all about the bottom line.”  Virgil was well known for his financial investment skills and loved to share his wisdom with others. It was common for people to sit and learn from him for hours as he taught them valuable investment tactics.  Virgil was still watching his bottom line up until his death.  

Perhaps the thing Virgil was most proud of was his 49-year membership with Cosmopolitan AA, where he was a loyal sponsor, mentor, and legend to many.  Virgil supported hundreds of men through their recovery and gave countless dollars and hours to the organization he so dearly loved. 

Virgil was a soft-spoken man of few words, but when he spoke people listened.  He was a wise, kind, and generous man, who gave selflessly to those in need.  He was a beloved father, grandfather, and friend who will be deeply missed by all who knew him. 

A visitation will be held on Saturday December 3^rd at 10:00 a.m. with a memorial service to follow at 11:00 a.m. at Smith Little Rock Funeral Home, 8801 Knoedl Court, Little Rock, AR. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of Virgil Shelton to the Cosmopolitan Foundation, PO Box 7426, Little Rock, AR 72217.