A longtime director, employee and beloved member of the Citizens Bank & Trust Co. family Joy Rae Shelton, a longtime member of the Citizens Bank & Trust Co. family and a devoted member of the Jackson community, passed away on August 31, 2026. She was 86 years old. Joy was born November 23, 1939, to Pryce and Golden Fletcher of Lee County. She was married to the late Floyd Shelton, who preceded her in death on October 10, 1996. After attending Oakdale Christian Academy, Joy continued her education by taking business courses at Kentucky Business College in Lexington. On April 1, 1966, she began what would become a remarkable career with Citizens Bank & Trust Co. Over the years, Joy worked in every department of the bank and became a familiar and trusted presence to generations of customers, coworkers and friends.
In 1986, Joy was elected to the Board of Directors of Citizens Bank & Trust Co., a position she faithfully held for 40 years. She remained an active and dedicated member of the Board until her passing, continuing to share her knowledge, experience and commitment to the bank she loved. After 40 years of service as an employee, Joy retired from the bank on December 31, 2006. Retirement did not keep Joy still for long. After six months at home, she returned to work at a local pharmacy for two years before then-President Marty Snowden invited her to return to Citizens Bank & Trust Co. on a part-time basis. Joy’s relationship with Citizens Bank & Trust Co. was much more than a career. The bank, its employees and the people she served were an important part of her life. Her many years of dedication, friendship and service left a lasting impression on those fortunate enough to know and work alongside her. Joy also served as a member of the Board of Directors and Treasurer of the John R. Turner Educational Foundation, further reflecting her lifelong commitment to education and service to her community. Joy was also a longtime member of Jackson First Church of God, where she faithfully served in many different roles throughout the years. Joy will be remembered for her dedication to her family, her church, her community and Citizens Bank & Trust Co. Her life of service touched countless people, and her memory will remain an important part of the history and legacy of the bank and the community she loved. Citizens Bank & Trust Co. extends its deepest sympathy to Joy’s family and friends. We are grateful for the many years she shared with us and for the lasting legacy she leaves behind. Submitted by Debbie Terry.
