The glory is being happy. The glory is not winning here or winning there. The glory is enjoying practicing, enjoy every day, enjoying to work hard, trying to be a better player than before. -Rafael Nadal
Obituary
Harold R. Garcia-Shelton, 80, of Raleigh, North Carolina, passed away on May 1, 2024, due to natural causes.
Harold was born on October 7, 1943, to Jasper Andrew Shelton and Clara Belle Heatherly Shelton in Hickman, Kentucky. He graduated from Eastern High School in 1961 and furthered his education at Michigan State University, where he excelled academically and athletically, playing on the Michigan State Tennis Team.
Following his graduation with a Bachelor of Arts degree, Harold embarked on a fulfilling career in education, starting as a teacher at East Lansing High School. He shared his passion for learning and sports by coaching both the men's and women's tennis teams. Always eager to expand his horizons, Harold pursued legal studies at Texas Southern University School of Law while briefly residing in Galveston, Texas. Upon returning to East Lansing, Michigan, he earned his law degree from Cooley Law School.
During his time at Michigan State University, Harold met Linda Garcia-Shelton, with whom he shared a loving marriage and raised three children: David Andrew, John Harold, and Carlos Cesar Garcia-Shelton.
Upon retiring, Harold embraced life's simple pleasures, spending cherished moments playing tennis with his sons, indulging in his love for running, delving into detective novels and classic literature, immersing himself in the beauty of opera, and nurturing his garden.
Harold was preceded in death by his brother, Charles Andrew Shelton, and his sisters, Mary Shelton French, Kay (Cazzato) Shelton, and Ruby Shelton Grooms. He is survived by his sister, Shelby Jean Shelton Smith, and brother, Billy Shelton.
A memorial service to honor Harold's life will be held at a time and place to be determined in Michigan over the summer. Information will be shared on this page but if you would like to be emailed about it please email hgarciashelton@yahoo.com.
Harold will be fondly remembered for his unwavering dedication to education, his love for his family, and his zest for life. His legacy of kindness, resilience, and passion will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.
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Sincere condolences to Linda and their sons and their families. May he rest in peace.
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