CORDOVA, Tenn. (BP) – Bellevue Baptist Church near Memphis announced Monday the death of Tim Shelton, the church’s pastor of groups leadership and family life. Shelton died Sunday (Oct. 8) after suffering cardiac arrest while competing in the St. Jude Ironman the day before.
Bellevue Pastor Steve Gaines told the congregation Sunday morning that Shelton went into cardiac arrest while participating in the swimming portion of the triathlon. At the time of Gaines’ comments, Shelton was in the hospital in critical condition. Gaines led the members in prayer for the family at the beginning of the worship service.
“We love them so much … ,” he prayed. “We thank you for Tim and what a great man of God he is.”
A Monday morning post on Bellevue’s Facebook page said Shelton was “known for his kindness toward everyone.”
“Tim touched many lives as he consistently lived out the faith he professed,” the statement said. “While we grieve Tim’s absence, we grieve with much hope, and we rejoice that he is now in the presence of the Lord Jesus.
“Please pray for his wife, Susan, and his sons, Jack, Gray, Sam, Drew, and John David.”
Many commenters on the post talked of Shelton’s kindness, humility and encouragement. He had served on the church’s staff for many years.
Funeral arrangements had not been made at time of publication.
