Elice Bunnell Shelton's Obituary
Elice Shelton, age 78, of Annapolis, Maryland passed away in the company
of her two sons on Friday, March 6, 2026, after a brief illness. Born on
January 2, 1948, Elice lived a life marked by devotion to her family,
generosity toward others, and a deep and abiding faith. Her interests were
gardening, swimming, traveling, equestrian pursuits and dog training. Elice
attended the University of Maryland and her course of study was Home
Economics.
On June 7, 1968, she married Rodney Shelton. Their life together ended
when Elice was predeceased by Rodney in 2001. Elice is survived by her two
sons, Christopher Andrew Shelton and David Michael Shelton, who carry
forward the values and love she instilled in them.
Elice possessed a generous spirit and a sincere desire to help others
succeed. She took particular interest in encouraging people to pursue their
goals and was willing to invest her time, resources, and support in
organizations that worked to help individuals grow and flourish.
She had a lifelong love for equestrian pursuits and spent many years
working with horses. Elice was a licensed Technical Delegate for the US
Equestrian Association. She poured her horse sense into others, providing
helpful information and sharing her personal experience. Recently, Elice
mentored a young equestrian by taking her to Ride for Life in Upper
Marlboro, and coaching her in dressage. Elice would sit in the family’s
makeshift judge stand and score her young charge’s tests. This young
woman went on to win her division and received the highest test score
across all levels with many thanks to Elice’s fine feedback.
Beginning in the 1970s, Elice began her affinity for poodles. Eventually she
became deeply involved in caring for, training, and showing poodles, a
passion that brought her great satisfaction and many friendships over the
decades. Elice earned numerous American Kennel Club titles with her
cherished dogs Caruso and Derek. Elice was a certified instructor for the
National Association of Dog Obedience Instructors (NADOI) whose goal is to
promote humane and effective dog training by certifying excellent
instructors. Elice offered courses in competition obedience, private lessons,
puppy socializing and training, training service and therapy dogs. Elice was
also invested in the Greenspring Poodle Club and acted as their
Corresponding Secretary. Elice wrote articles for publication to help families
raise happy and healthy dogs.
Her faith was the cornerstone of her life. Elice loved her King and Savior,
Jesus Christ, and remained committed to studying and discussing His Word
until the end of her life. Those who joined her in these studies valued her
thoughtful insights, wisdom, and sincere devotion. For many years, Elice
worshiped at Severna Park Evangelical Presbyterian Church. Later, she
became a devoted member of Trinity Presbyterian Church in Crofton, where
she was part of the founding congregation and cherished the fellowship of
the church community.
Elice will be remembered for her kindness, faith, encouragement of others,
and the many lives she touched through her generosity and friendship. Her
family and friends take comfort in the legacy of love and faith she leaves
behind.
A memorial service will be held on Friday March 20, 2026 at 5:00 pm at
Annapolis EP Church at 710 Ridgely Avenue, Annapolis, MD.
What’s your fondest memory of Elice?
What’s a lesson you learned from Elice?
Share a story where Elice's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Elice you’ll never forget.
How did Elice make you smile?
