Paul J. Shelton

Paul J. Shelton, age 75, passed away March 26, 2026, in his home in Bakersfield, CA. leaving behind a legacy of love, devotion, and cherished memories with family and friends.

Paul was born on July 15, 1950 in Talladega, Alabama, to Corbin and Ceylon Shelton. He grew up alongside his siblings, Jesse, Barbra and another brother before his family eventually made their way to California.

In 1969, Paul married the love of his life, Kathryn Rebecca “Becky” Passmore. Together, they shared 56 wonderful years of marriage, building a life rooted in love and commitment. Paul and Becky raised two sons, Brian and Jeff, who were the pride of his life.

Paul began his career as an automation/instrument technician with Mobil Oil in Torrance, California. In the early 1980s, he moved his family to Bakersfield where he continued his career at the Texaco refinery and later with Chevron in the Kern River area until his retirement.

Paul found great joy in the outdoors and in time spent with those he loved. Many of his happiest memories were made camping, riding dirt bikes, fishing, and shooting in the Sierra Nevada Mountains and Sequoia National Forest. He also had a passion for travel, especially trips with Becky to the beautiful beaches of Hawai‘i and a memorable stay in Costa Rica.

Over the years, Paul also developed a deep passion for classic cars and hot rods. He built and showcased many vehicles, taking great pride in his craftsmanship. He enjoyed attending car shows and earned numerous awards for his work, sharing this passion with family and friends.

Above all, Paul treasured his family. Annual lake trips and camping adventures with children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were among his greatest joys. His love, guidance, and steady presence will be deeply missed but forever remembered.

Paul is survived by his wife, Kathryn Rebecca “Becky” Shelton; his son Paul “Brian” Shelton; his son Jeffrey Todd Shelton and wife Kristi; grandchildren Griffin, Trever and wife Tiffany, Kayla, and Knikki; great-grandchildren Faith, Hope, Evan “Goose”, Emma and Addison.

Paul is proceeded in death by his parents Corbin and Ceylon Shelton and his brothers Arthur and Jesse Shelton.

Private Viewing will be held at Peter’s Funeral Home, Shafter, CA from 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM. On April 10th.

Graveside services will follow at 2:00 PM at Shafter Memorial Park in Shafter, California.

Celebration of Life to follow at 4:00 PM at Jeff & Kristi residence in Bakersfield, CA.

Paul will remain forever in our hearts, and he will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him ♥ We Love you Dad & Grandpa!