Markael LaJuan Shelton's Obituary
“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.” II Timothy 4:7 On September 7, 2009, the Lord blessed the world with Markael Lajuan Shelton, born in St. Louis, Missouri to proud parents, Linda Jenkins and Martin Shelton. From the very beginning, his life was a gift, a joy, and a light to all who knew him. His beloved grandfather Robert Jenkins and his aunt, Cherita Shelton, preceded him in death and now welcome him into that great cloud of witnesses. On Friday, January 16, 2026, at Children’s Hospital, surrounded by the love, prayers, and presence of his family, Markael quietly slipped from earth to glory. As Psalm 116:15 reminds us, “ Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints ”. Though young in years, he fulfilled his assignment with purpose, love, and a heart full of faith. On March 16, 2025, Markael professed a hope in Christ, choosing Jesus as his Savior. One week later, on Sunday, March 23, 2025, he was baptized at Shalom City of Peace under the leadership of the Reverend Dr. Freddy J. Clark. Heaven rejoiced, and his family celebrated as he began walking in the newness of life, just as Romans 6:4 declares. Markael attended the Hazelwood East School District, where he was known for his bright spirit and warm personality. He loved football, basketball, and spending countless hours playing Xbox and PlayStation with his brother, Marrell. Whether watching sports or in front of a game console, Markael brought joy, laughter, and excitement everywhere he went. He cherished time with his family and friends, creating memories that will forever live in their hearts. His love for sports—watching—reflected his energetic nature and his passion for life. Though his time on earth was brief, his impact was profound. Like Psalm 39:4 teaches us, “ Lord, make me to know mine end… that I may know how frail I am ”. Markael’s life reminds us to love deeply, live fully, and hold fast to God’s promises. Markael leaves to cherish his memory his loving parents ~ Martin Shelton and Lynda Jenkins; his brothers and sisters ~ Martin Shelton III, Marrell Shelton, Christopher (Valerie) Jenkins, Kristian (Sherman) Jenkins, Ciara Jenkins, Lya Jenkins and Rayel Puller; grandparents ~ Martin Shelton, Sr., Arneda Shelton, Cynthia Jenkins and Beatrice Grimes; aunts and uncles ~ Lorraine Fields, Arneda Shelton, Danielle Shelton, Destiny Shelton, Bryan Shelton, Aaron (Beverly) Jenkins, Charles (Nicole) Jenkins, Kenneth (LaJuan) Jenkins, Angela Jenkins, Michele Jenkins; special niece ~ Kameryn; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends who were blessed by his presence. Each of them carries a piece of his joy, his laughter and his unwavering spirit. Though our hearts ache, we take comfort in knowing that Markael rests in the eternal peace promised to all God’s children. His life—though brief—was a testament to love, faith, and the power of a joyful spirit. We honor him today not in sorrow alone, but in gratitude for the years we were given, the memories we hold, and the hope we share in Christ. May his light continue to shine in the lives of all who loved him, and may we find strength in the words of Revelation 21:4: “And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying... for the former things are passed away.”
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