Frances "Fran" (Janicki) Shelton

Frances A. “Gran Fran” Shelton, of Middletown, DE, dedicated mother, grandmother and great grandmother, died peacefully on Sept. 26.

Ms. Shelton is survived by two sons, Harry Shelton and his wife Anne of Wilmington, DE, Frank Shelton and his wife Robin of Middletown, DE, seven grandchildren, Matthew Shelton of Mt. Joy, PA, Joseph Shelton of Newark, DE, Kelly Shelton of Philadelphia, PA, Gabriella Mackie of Middletown, DE, Jake Shelton of Sarasota, FL, Grant Mackie of Middletown, DE and Luke Shelton of Parris Island, SC; one great grandchild, Brady Shelton of Middletown, DE; one sister, Florence Hoot of Port St. Lucie, FL; and one brother, William Janicki of Ocean View, DE. She was preceded in death by two brothers, Bernard Janicki of Alexandria, VA, and Joseph Janicki of Newman, GA

Ms. Shelton was born in Wilmington on June 15, 1941, to Bernard and Stella Janicki. She grew up in Wilmington’s Hedgeville neighborhood, directly across the street from St. Hedwig’s Catholic Church, where she attended services throughout her youth.

Ms. Shelton had a long career as an office manager and controller. Her career included leadership roles for Kearney Chemicals of Tampa, FL Diamond State International of Wilmington, DE and the Carman Auto Group of New Castle, DE, where she continued to work as a consultant until her death.

Ms. Shelton also volunteered for nonprofit groups, including Literacy Volunteers of America.

Ms. Shelton was extremely proud of her Polish heritage and was a lifelong member of the Catholic Church. She loved watching Notre Dame football games and cheered on all the Philadelphia sports teams. She traveled to many places around the world, including Australia, Japan and France. She loved the beach, spending time with her exercise friends and watching Jeopardy every night on television.

Most of all, Ms. Shelton loved her family and spending time with them. When her first grandchild was born, she dubbed herself “Gran Fran,” a moniker that stuck for the rest of her life. She will be remembered for her generosity, kindness and loving spirit.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 17th at St. Hedwig’s Catholic Church located at 408 S. Harrison St. Wilmington, DE 19805. Visitation begins at 10:00 a.m. followed by Mass at 11:00 a.m.

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