Talbert “Tab” S. Shelton

It is with great sadness that the family of Talbert “Tab” S. Shelton announce that he was suddenly called home to be with God on November 16, 2016. Tab was 66 years old.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on January 14, 2017 at 2:00 PM, Gainesville First United Methodist Church, 2780 Thompson Bridge Road.  The Rev.  Scott Hearn will officiate. The family will receive friends after the service in the church Gathering Room.

Tab was born April 18, 1950 in Vine Grove, KY to the late Talbert S. and Dorothy K. Shelton. He is survived by his wife, Ida Massey Shelton; son Spencer Bezy and daughter-in-law Monica Bezy; beloved grandchildren Isabel and Robbie; brother, Jerry Shelton; sisters Jackie Shelton and Susan Robinson; many nieces and his canine buddy, Hudson.

Music was Tab’s passion. Playing keyboards in numerous bands helped pay his way as he earned his B.S. degree at the University of Louisville. Highlights from his band days include winning first place in a Kentucky “Battle of the Bands” contest and playing backup for Rhythm and Blues singers, Sam and Dave. While playing in the Louisville Stouffer’s Hotel “house band’, visiting celebrities would often stop by to listen for a while and say hello. In recent years, he expanded his music outreach by recording numerous friends’ musical talents and operating the audio system at Church services.

Tab was a man of wide interests and talents.  Over the years he held a private pilot’s license, was a certified scuba diver, avid sailor, loved snow skiing, and joked that he enjoyed playing golf badly.  His much-appreciated “Handyman” skills included electrical, plumbing, roofing, and frequent boat repair.

Embarking upon a new career path at 40 years old, Tab left the field of technical sales and earned a Master of Accounting Degree at Georgia State University.  He was employed by Yancey Brothers Caterpillar Equipment Dealer in Atlanta, then moved to Gainesville, Georgia to open his CPA practice.  For the past 20 years he has served accounting clients as a trusted advisor with unwavering integrity. He was an adjunct professor of accounting at the University of North Georgia, a mentor for many students. In recent years he served as President of the Northeast Ga. Chapter of the Ga. Society of CPA’s and as Finance Committee Chairman at Gainesville First United Methodist Church. Encouraging and supporting others gave Tab great joy in life.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that memorial contributions be made to The Believer’s Band, C/O Gainesville First United Methodist Church, 2780 Thompson Bridge Road, Gainesville, Ga. or the Humane Society of Northeast Georgia, 845 Ridge Road, Gainesville, Ga. 30501