Kathryn Rebecca Shelton

Kathryn Rebecca “Becky” Shelton, born February 2, 1949, passed away on May 1, 2026 in her home in Bakersfield, CA. Becky was a devoted wife, loving mother, proud grandmother and great-grandmother, and a dear friend to many. Her warmth, strength, and unwavering love for her family will be remembered always.

Becky was born in Wilmington, California, and spent her younger years there before moving to Long Beach with her husband, Paul. Their love story began in a way that perfectly reflected Becky’s spirited nature, while cruising in her Chevelle, Paul pulled up beside her and asked if she wanted to race. That moment sparked a lifelong partnership, and the two were married on the 4th of July, 1969. For 56 years the two of them were inseparable. Together, they raised their two sons, Paul “Brian” Shelton and Jeffrey Todd Shelton, before moving to Bakersfield, CA in the early 1980s.

Becky built a strong and admirable career over the years. She held several administrative roles early in life, including working for Hallmark Acceptance Corporation as an Investment Secretary and Office Administrator. After moving to Bakersfield, Becky worked for Bidart Bros. as a Crop Analyst, where she remained until her retirement in 2013.

Becky had a deep love for the outdoors and a lifelong sense of adventure. She grew up riding dirt bikes throughout California and camping under the stars, a passion she carried with her throughout her life. She and Paul enjoyed camping trips with family to the mountains and many different lakes. Becky loved riding her jet ski, often giving the grandkids a trip on the water with her. She regularly fished the Kern River and Lake Isabella and fried trout better than anyone. Becky especially loved Ventura and Carpenteria, where she looked forward to visits to Pete’s Breakfast House for her favorite strawberry jam.

Travel brought Becky great joy, particularly her and Paul’s annual trips to Hawai‘i over several decades. They spent their time boogie boarding, relaxing on the beach, hiking and capturing the beauty of Hawaiian sunsets.

At home, Becky found happiness in gardening, where her yard flourished with beautiful flowers and vegetables. She loved working in her yard. She also had a special fondness for her chickens, lovingly referred to as her “girls”, and took great joy in caring for them. They would follow her everywhere.

Above all, Becky’s greatest joy in life was her family—especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She never missed an opportunity to support them and be present in their lives. Whether attending events or simply spending time together, her love and dedication were constant and unwavering.

She is survived by her sons, Paul “Brian” Shelton and Jeffrey Todd Shelton and wife Kristi; grandchildren Griffin, Trever and wife Tiffany, Kayla, and Knikki; great-grandchildren Faith, Hope, Evan “Goose”, Emma and Addison.

Becky was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Paul J. Shelton; her parents, William Passmore Sr. and Arita Passmore of Maricopa, California; her brother, William Passmore Jr.; and her grandchildren, Christian and Faith Shelton.

A viewing will be held on Friday, May 15, from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Peters Funeral Home in Shafter, California. A graveside service will follow at 2:00 p.m. at Shafter Memorial Park. A Celebration of Life will be held at 4:00 p.m. at the home of Jeff and Kristi in Bakersfield.

Becky’s life was filled with love, adventure, and devotion to those she held dear. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew her, and she will be deeply missed.

We love you Mom and Grandma… a bushel and a peck and a hug around the neck 🩷