We are deeply saddened to note that Allen Shelton passed away, November 21. After having been released from the hospital a week ago (11/13), he was readmitted on Thursday, slipped into unconsciousness on Friday and died on Saturday afternoon.
Allen had been initially hospitalized in October, where he was diagnosed with leukemia. He had remained in the hospital in Nashville until his recent release.
Fred Robbins sent along this report from Allen’s daughter-in-law…
“He had to be readmitted to the hospital Thursday because his platelets were low. He was fine Friday evening, but at some point he went to sleep and they could not get him to wake up. They ran tests and believe he had a heart attack and a stroke. He never woke up again, but thankfully he went peacefully surrounded by his family.”
We hope to have details on funeral arrangements on Monday, along with where cards of sympathy and remembrances of Allen can be sent.
Allen Shelton was an exceptional banjo player, and his contributions to our music will be long and well remembered. He was also a generous, kind and sweet man, and we send our condolences to his family and friends.
UPDATE 11/23 – A brief obituary as well as funeral and visitation information can be found on the web site of Woodard Funeral Home.
Peter Cooper of The Tennessean has a much longer piece available online.
Cards can be sent in care of Allen’s son:
100 Alexander Lane
Bethpage, TN 37022
