Steven (Steve) Robert Shelton, Sr.
Steven (Steve) Robert Shelton, Sr. passed away peacefully at his home on October 15, 2025, at the age of 74. Born in Eagle Pass, Texas, to parents George and Marilyn (Davenport) Shelton on April 25, 1951.
Steve was a passionate educator and tireless advocate for community health, dedicating his life to expanding access to care for underserved communities across Texas and beyond. After earning degrees from Angelo State University, The University of Texas School of Allied Health Sciences, and the University of Houston–Clear Lake, he spent more than four decades at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, where he inspired countless students and colleagues through his leadership, compassion, and vision. Even after his retirement in 2018, Steve continued sharing his knowledge as an Adjunct Professor at the University of Houston’s Fertitta Family College of Medicine and devoted his time to the church, where he joyfully served in outreach missions and cherished his Sunday School Group and Bible Study friends.
A lifelong learner and mentor, Steve was an Eagle Scout and carried those values of leadership and service throughout his life. During his college years, he worked at Camp Longhorn, where he shared his love for the outdoors and inspired others to do the same. He served at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, was a soccer coach for his children, and a proud fan of the Houston Dynamo and Dash. Steve also loved sailing and enjoyed teaching Spanish language classes, sharing his appreciation for learning and connection across cultures.
Steve was a man of profound loyalty and devotion to his family. He cherished time spent with loved ones, offering steady guidance, unconditional support, and a quiet strength that anchored those around him. His home was a place of warmth, laughter, and enduring love—a reflection of the values he carried throughout his life.
He is survived by his wife Wanda Hamilton Shelton; children Steven Shelton and partner Kenneth Buttermore, Georgia Matthews and husband Sean, Kevin Shelton and wife Sara, and Dorothy Shelton; and stepsons Zach Norris and wife Leandra and Ben Norris. He also leaves behind his grandchildren Kamryn, Ava, Micah, and Zoey Matthews; Eliza Shelton; Everly Catrone; and Amara and Porter Norris. Steve is also survived by his brother Stuart Shelton (Rhonda), sister Kathy Vinson (Eugene), and many nieces, nephews, bonus children and grandchildren, and dear, close friends.
A memorial service will be held at League City United Methodist Church on November 8, 2025, at 1 p.m. 1601 W League City Parkway, League City, Tx, 77573
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the League City United Methodist Church, the Texas Rural Health Association in honor of his lifelong commitment to community health and education, or to U.M. Army at umarmy.org to continue inspiring and teaching youth as he did for so many years.
Steve will be deeply missed but forever remembered for his generous heart, quiet strength, and the deep love he shared with his family and friends.
Our family are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Steve, a kind friend and dear colleague. His professional generosity, commitment and care for underseved populations, health care access and health outcomes has significantly impacted programs delivered in far west New South Wales, Australia 🇦🇺. Steve’s wisdom and friendship were greatly appreciated and his international support in advancing health equity impactful for our family and communities. A true gentleman and scholar. Our world is poorer for his passing. Our thoughts are with Wanda and Steve’s family despite the distance that seperates us. Our deepest regards. Professor Deb Jones, Tony Langdon (RN), Morgan, Joey, Shelby, Logan, Jessie and our families.
Thank you Deb, Tone and your family. Your beautiful message captures many of our memories of Steve and your around-the-world family friendship. You always bring joy when we think of your work and fun. Mary Wainwright
I am so saddened to hear of Steven’s death. He was such an amazing person, professional and family man. He was one of my favorite high school and college classmates. We also shared many fond times and memories at his parents’ Shelton Drug operated by two of the greatest parents Antone could have! I enjoyed working with him over the years to advance Angelo State University in the Houston area. My prayers and thoughts are with the family during this difficult time. May God bring each of them comfort and peace.
Sande Vincent Harrison
SACHS Class of 1970
ASU Clss of 1973