Willard Roscar Shelton

Willard Roscar Shelton, 91, passed away at Roman Eagle Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center on Saturday, January 25, 2025. He was born in Pittsylvania County, VA, on February 24, 1933, to the late Dallas Terry Shelton and Mattie Davis Shelton. He was preceded in death by his wife, Madeline Shelton; three brothers, Henry Shelton, Howard Shelton, and William Shelton; and six sisters, Sandrell Payne, Helen Moser, Georgia Rigney, Lyde Shelton, Bernice Marshall, and Alice Douglas. Willard is survived by his twin brother, Lillard Shelton (Christine); two sons from his first marriage to Madeline, Michael Shelton (Cathy) and Mark Shelton (Penny); and his daughter, Lisa DeMott (Chad), from his second marriage to Esther Hall, who also survives. Willard is also survived by five grandchildren: Ethan Shelton (Danielle), Mackenzie Kingston (John), Cierra Boyer (Jonas), Savannah Smith (Collen), and Gianna DeMott, as well as two step-grandchildren, Christi Paige and Taylor Paige, and five great-grandchildren.

Willard served in the U.S. Army from 1953 to 1955 and later retired from Dan River Mills in 1991, where he worked as a supervisor for thirty years. He was a devoted member of Hope Church and attended Westover Pentecostal Church regularly. Raised on a farm, Willard had a love for country life and often reminisced about his childhood working alongside his twin brother in the tobacco fields. He had a passion for gardening and always planted an abundance of tomatoes, saying he wanted enough for himself, his friends, and even the deer. Willard enjoyed listening to bluegrass music, western movies and over the years, built an impressive collection of guns. After retirement, Willard developed a love for motorcycling, purchasing a Harley Davidson and traveling the country with fellow riders, including several trips to Sturgis, SD. He wore out his first bike and quickly bought another to continue his adventures. Willard was known for his storytelling and sense of humor, and he was truly a legend among those who knew him. Willard dedicated his time to his family. His love and presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him. 

 The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Roman Eagle North Terrace for their compassion and care during this difficult time. Special thanks are also given to Esther Hall for her unwavering love and support, particularly over the past seven years. 

 A service to honor Willard’s life will be held on Thursday, January 30th at 2:00 pm Townes Funeral Home in Danville, VA, officiated by Pastor Darrell Campbell. Interment will follow the service in Highland Burial Park with military honors conducted by the US Army Honor Guard and the American Legion Post 1097 Honor Guard.  The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service, and at other times at the family’s homes. The family suggests that motorcycles are welcome to help honor Willard on his last ride.  

The family suggests that memorial donations be made to the American Legion Post 1097. 

Please sign the online guestbook on the Memory Wall at www.townesfuneralhome.com The Shelton family has entrusted arrangements to Townes Funeral Home and Crematory, 215 West Main St., Danville, VA, 434-793-1211.