Derek "Ryan" Oneal Shelton was a bright light extinguished at age 43. He was a hard working man who was a dedicated believer, loved all things biblical and strove to be as close to G-d as possible. Sadly, he was diagnosed with a brain tumor that affected his eyesight, which cost him his job. He underwent a 14 hour (second brain surgery) surgery at DePaul Hospital in Saint Louis, Missouri to alleviate the pressure from the tumor and subsequent partial removal of the growth, which was then diagnosed as an advanced Neuroblastoma (cancer). Ryan unfortunately suffered a brain stem stroke during surgery. He didn't wake up. He was asleep for 5 weeks. He fought through being on a vent, getting a feeding tube, a trach and drain tubes in his head, blood clots and more surgeries. He held on until G-d called home on August 11, 2025 at 8:35 am at age 43 years 11 months 24 days 15 hrs and 24 minutes. He would have turned 44 on 09/04/2025.

Ryan was a man of character, even tempered and an amazing friend. The love he had for the Father was shown in his character. He was also fun loving and an avid Tekken player and gamer. He was known as a kind, warmhearted individual who always placed his faith first, regardless of his circumstances. He didn't complain. He prayed. Even until the last day he was awake, prayer and scripture were on his lips in spite of the tremendous pain he was in.

Ryan did not have life insurance and we, his friends of 2 decades, are asking that any who feel so led, would help us give him the dignified home going this amazing man of G-d deserves. All donations will be used to cover crematorium costs and memorial service.

If you are not in a position to give, pray for the friends and family who love him because having to watch someone you care about pass is devastating and Ryan would pray for any of you, were he here.

Thank you for even reading this far. Ryan's love needs to be spread, even though he is no longer here. The memories he left in our hearts and minds will remain forever.

Thank you,

Sharhonda