WATER VALLEY — James Edward Shelton, 86, died Friday, May 27, 2016, at Yalobusha General Hospital in Water Valley. A graveside memorial service will be held at a later date. Visitation will be held today from 5-7 p.m. at Seven Oaks Funeral Home, which is in charge of arrangements.

Born in Batesville, he served 16 years in the U.S. Navy. He worked as a statistical processing control administrator for Holley Carburetor and Siegel Roberts in Charleston, Missouri where he retired after 25 years of service. He was a member of Bethel Baptist Church in Water Valley.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by sons James Edward Shelton Jr. and John Byron Shelton; and brother Billy Shelton.

He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Betty Jane Shelton of Water Valley; son Joel Richard Shelton of Bensenville, Illinois; five grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren and one great-great granddaughter.