Ricky Lee Shelton, 65, died early Friday, May 16, 2025 at OSU East in Columbus after weeks of failing health.
He was born April 17, 1960 in Portsmouth to the late Dannie and Alice (Burke) Shelton. The Sheltons made their way to Bucyrus in 1966 and Ricky graduated from Bucyrus High School in 1978. A prolific athlete for the Redmen, Ricky was a three-year letter winner in track and football. He held the school’s long jump record of 22’ for ten years and qualified for the state meet his final two years, finishing 6th his junior year. He played semi-pro football for the Shelby Blues from 80-82 where he was named an all-star in 81 and 82. He suited up again in 1990 for the Wyandot Chiefs and averaged 25 yards per catch in his final year of 1991. He also played slow pitch softball in the 80s and 90s. He was married to Merri Jacobs in 1982 and they divorced in 1987.
Ricky worked in engineering and held a bachelor’s degree in the profession. His work took him from Shafer Valve to Baja Marine, then Swan Hose before returning to Baja and back to Shafer from which he retired in 2024.
Ricky will be remembered as a caring, loving, trustworthy, and reliable man who loved his son and adored his granddaughter. He played golf, Texas Hold ‘em, casino games, and pull-tabs at Moose Lodge #669 and Elks Lodge #156 where he held memberships. He also liked listening to country music and classic rock from the 70s and 80s. He followed the Ohio State Buckeyes, Cleveland Indians, and Cavaliers basketball. Ricky also liked to cook.
Ricky is survived by son, Ryan (Ciarra) Shelton; granddaughter, Karleigh Shelton; and siblings, Steve Shelton and Sonya (Terry) McClary. He was preceded in death by his parents and sisters, Ronda Jo Shelton, Teresa Artrip, and Kay Pinion.
Ricky’s family is gathering privately to lay him to rest in Oakwood Cemetery. Those wishing to make a donation in his memory are asked to make it payable to “Moose Charities” (for Mooseheart) and give through Wise Funeral Service in Bucyrus.
Memories and photos can be shared on the guestbook of Ricky’s tribute page at www.wisefuneral.com
