Judy Lyle Shelton, 80, died Friday, June 10, 2022, at American House Assisted Living Community in Johnson City, Tennessee, after a courageous battle with a long-term illness.

Judy was born to Gordon and Peggy Lyle in Johnson City, Tennessee on February 2, 1942. She was known as the “silver dollar baby” because her father paid his firstborn’s hospital bill with dollars. in silver. Judy graduated valedictorian from Jonesboro High School and graduated, with honors, from East Tennessee State University with a bachelor’s degree in education and later with a master’s degree in marriage and family therapy.

She began her teaching career in the Washington County school system as a first-grade teacher, then designed the curriculum and launched the kindergarten program at Jonesboro Elementary School. After taking several years off to focus on raising her daughters, she opened a kindergarten for three- and four-year-olds. Her beautiful spirit and gentle teaching methods provided a solid and happy educational foundation for many.

Judy quit her job in education to pursue a master’s degree in marriage and family therapy. She opened a private practice and was highly regarded in her field. Over the years, she has served many clients and found great joy in helping them overcome obstacles and achieve their life’s goals.

She was actively involved in her community and her church. Over time, she has served Jonesborough United Methodist Church in many capacities. She was also a member of the Schubert Club and enjoyed the company of her fellow club members as they endeavored to enrich and serve the surrounding community.

She was predeceased by her husband of nearly 60 years, Alan, and daughter, Alice Kathryn Shelton. She was also predeceased by her brother-in-law, Bob Lawson.

She is survived by her daughter, Sally Shelton Johnson and her husband Tom; and his granddaughter and love of his life, Lilly Joy Minton. Also survived are her precious sisters, Suzanne Lyle Lawson and Kathy Lyle Jones and her husband, Jerry; her dearest friends, Verna Phillips Jackson and Tami Wampler Moore; and many cherished cousins, nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held at Jonesborough United Methodist Church on Thursday, June 16, 2022. The family will receive friends from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. and the service will begin at 6:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family is asking that donations be made to Jonesborough United Methodist Church.

Condolences can be sent to the Shelton family online at www.dillow-taylor.com.

Dillow-Taylor Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Jonesborough, TN 753-3821