With great sadness and a heavy heart, we announce that Ella Jean Williamson Shelton passed away Thursday, December 15, 2016. Born October 21, 1935, in Ninety Six, S.C., Jean was the youngest daughter of the late Eugene and Lenore Williamson.

Jean was married to Ralph Banks for 13 years during which time they had three children; Ralph Jr., Shelby and Cathy. After Ralph's untimely death in 1967, she married Mike Shelton and they spent 48 wonderful years together and had one son, Michael.

A graduate of the Columbia Hospital School of Nursing's class of 1959, Jean began work as a registered nurse at Columbia Hospital where she eventually became the head nurse of the first intensive care unit in Columbia. In 1980, she joined the nursing staff of Richland Memorial Hospital's Pediatric Clinic, later to become part of the Palmetto Health Children's Hospital. She retired in 2000 to enjoy time with her family and friends, of which she loved every second.

Jean meant more to those who knew her than she could have possibly imagined. A loving wife, an incredible mother and loyal friend, she touched so many lives and will be deeply missed and always remembered with a smile.

Jean was preceded in death by her mother, father, and sister, Loraine Shaner.

She is survived by her husband and best friend, Mike Shelton; her children, Ralph Banks, Jr. (Janie), Shelby Duensing (Jim), Cathy Gillespy (John), and Michael Shelton (Kate); her niece Debbi Mattox, seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

A funeral service will be held Monday, December 19, at 11 a.m. at Harley Funeral Home, 1025 S Main Street, Greenwood, S.C., with visitation immediately following.

In lieu of flowers, donations to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (stjude.org) or a charity of your choice will be appreciated.