Ronene Denise Shelton

Born on November 11, 1943, in Estherville, Iowa, to Ronald and Opal Prior, Ronene was a gifted and determined woman from a young age. She began first grade at just four years old and graduated from Estherville High School, where she played clarinet in the band and showed early signs of her lifelong creativity. Whether turning the family’s little red wagon into a float for the kids’ parade or riding the family horse, Buck, after school, Ronene always had a spark for adventure and imagination.

She attended Iowa State University intending to study architecture, but at the time, women were not admitted to the program. Undeterred, she pursued her passion for the arts and earned a degree in art before continuing on to the University of Tennessee, where she received her master’s degree in art education. Her artistic talent was only matched by her fierce intelligence and unwavering sense of justice.

Ronene took the Civil Service exam and moved to Washington, D.C., where she worked for the Provost Marshal General of the Army and later in a top-security government office — the nature of which she was never permitted to reveal. Eventually, her passion for civil rights led her to American University, where she earned her law degree. She worked as a public defender in Arlington County, Virginia, before moving into private practice and ultimately dedicating herself full-time to motherhood — a role she cherished most.

Ronene married the love of her life, John Paul Shelton, after they met through what the family jokingly calls a “job interview gone right” — she had applied for a position at Delex Systems, where Paul was conducting interviews. From that day forward, they were inseparable.

She was the proud mother of Martha Jane Paisley, Hannah Leigh Shelton, and Sarah Ann Shelton, and the devoted stepmother of Carolyn Shelton (deceased), Thomas Shelton, and Kenneth Shelton. She was also the loving sister of Wayne Prior, Richard Prior, and the late Scott Prior, and the cherished aunt to many nieces and nephews, and grandmother to numerous children.

Ronene and Paul opened their hearts and home to children in need, becoming foster parents in the mid-1970s. They went on to adopt two older teens and later welcomed two more children from birth into their family. Ronene was a fierce advocate for every child she raised, ensuring they were given every opportunity, support, and sense of belonging. Her empathy and fierce protection made her a hero in their eyes.

A staunch defender of civil liberties and human rights, Ronene devoted both her professional and personal life to lifting up the underdog. She believed deeply in doing what was right, no matter the cost.

Outside of her professional achievements and dedication to her family, Ronene lived a rich and joyful life. She was a talented artist who loved painting, drawing, sewing, and ballroom dancing. Alongside her husband, she took dance lessons at the Andrews Air Force Base Officers Club, and together they were known to be quite the pair on the dance floor. She had a great sense of humor and a fun-loving spirit, often seen dancing on the beach during family vacations to Clearwater, Florida, or the Outer Banks of North Carolina.

Ronene loved animals and shared her home with beloved pets throughout her life. She also had a deep commitment to fitness, enjoying biking, swimming, and staying active.

Above all else, Ronene will be remembered for her unwavering integrity, tireless advocacy for others, and the boundless love she poured into her family. She made everyone she loved feel seen, protected, and valued.

She leaves behind a legacy of strength, creativity, and compassion that will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Funeral Services are scheduled for the same day at Murphy Funeral Home from 12:00 pm to 12:45 pm, with a live stream available at https://client.tribucast.com/tcid/c25102097383579.

Graveside Services will take place on October 17, 2025, from 1:00 pm to 1:30 pm at 7482 Lee Hwy, Falls Church, VA 22042.

A Celebration of Life Reception will be held from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm at Murphy Funeral Home, 1102 W Broad St, Falls Church, VA, featuring fellowshipping with food.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in her memory to a children's advocacy or animal rescue organization of your choice.