WHITE STONE—Lewis Vernial Shelton, 96, of White Stone passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, March 25, 2024.
He was born and raised by his parents Jessie Tapley and Adell Chester Shelton in Lancaster County. He loved the water, loved fishing and made working on the water his life’s work. He was an avid waterfowl carver, creating many beautiful pieces.
Lewis was drafted into the Army, and his unit was deployed to Korea, where he worked as a medic. He received many service medals, as well as a commendation for saving two men in his unit. Lewis was always very proud of his service.
In his early years, Lewis was a ferry boat captain on the Rappahannock River, prior to the construction of the Norris Bridge. He eventually got a job on a menhaden fisheries boat and worked his way up to becoming a captain. He spent many fishing seasons leading his crews making a living in the Chesapeake Bay, its tributaries and the Atlantic Ocean.
In 1993, Lewis married Mae Staton and they enjoyed a life together. He enjoyed his retirement carving, fishing and for a while, even had the opportunity to operate the lovely Miss Ann down at The Tides Inn when she was in her prime. Lewis was a man of faith and was a deacon at Morattico Baptist Church in Kilmarnock. He was very loved in the community and was often referred to as a “sweet, gentle man.”
Lewis is survived by his wife, Mae; several nieces and nephews, as well as many great-nieces and great-nephews; and many friends he loved like family.
He was preceded in death by his parents; four sisters, Mary Jett, Doris Jett, Polly Walker and Frances Abbott; and brothers, Calvin, Lloyd, Joseph “Wickie”, Douglas “Buck”, John Thomas and Steven “Dinky” Shelton.
Services were held at 11 a.m. Friday, March 29, at Morattico Baptist Church, with interment at Irvington Baptist Church following the service.
Visitation was held from 5-7 p.m. Thursday, March 28, at Currie Funeral Home in Kilmarnock.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation to Morattico Baptist Church, P.O. Box 228, Kilmarnock, VA 22482.
