Margaret Judith Shelton

Margaret Judith Shelton was born August 11th, 1926 in Fresno, California and passed away peacefully at the age of 90 on Wednesday, June 28, 2017. She is preceded in death by her first husband, Richard Folmer and her second husband, Albert Shelton. Margaret is the last of 11 siblings born to Agostino and Rosa Maria Sincerchio who immigrated from Maschito, Italy.

She is survived by her son, David Folmer with daughter in law, Traci Folmer and her daughter, Kathleen Tilson with son-in-law, Bill Tilson. Margaret was blessed with 4 grandchildren: Matthew Folmer, Stephen Folmer, Melissa Folmer Johndrow, Will Tilson and 3 great-grandchildren. Her love for her grandchildren was a driving force in her life and she spent many hours caring for them.

As a first generation Italian- American, she grew up in Fresno and graduated from Fresno High School. She raised her children while working part time at Laucks Bakery, Newberry’s, DiRedo Dry Yard, and Ernie Pyle School. Eventually, she returned to college where she earned a Child Development Credential and became a teacher’s assistant. At the age of 62, she retired from Fresno EOC Head Start.

During her lifetime, she suffered some health set backs and faced breast cancer at a time when there were limited medical options. Her Catholic faith and strength to fight illness was admired and often surprising. That resilience was part of her personality and being. She fought to live a longer life, so she could remain with her family.

Margaret had a good life, full of love, family, and friends. She enjoyed talking on the telephone with loved ones and having them visit her at home. No one would ever leave her table hungry, even if it was simply sharing a sandwich with homemade pickles. It gave her great joy to make sure guests were full by the time they left. Her generosity and nurturing nature will truly be missed.

Visitation will be held at Holy Spirit Catholic Church on Friday, July 14, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. followed by a Recitation of the Holy Rosary at 10:30 a.m.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Holy Spirit Catholic Church on Friday, July 14, 2017, at 11:00 a.m.

Any remembrances or donations can be made to Susan G. Koman Breast Cancer Foundation, 5730 N. First Street #105, Fresno, CA 93710. You can also donate online at http://ww5.komen.org.

Arrangements under the direction of Stephens & Bean Funeral Chapel, Fresno, CA.