Former staff member Lillian Shelton has passed away

The University recently learned that Lillian Shelton passed away on Tuesday, Oct. 21, 2025. Lillian served as the longtime director of the Secrest Artists Series, retiring in 2013 after nearly 28 years with the University. Her dedication and passion for the arts helped enhance students’ appreciation of the performing arts and provided the broader community with opportunities to experience the talents of world-class soloists, orchestras, ensembles, and dance groups.

The Wake Forest community extends our condolences to Lillian’s family and friends. Memorial services will be held at Rolling Hills Moravian Church in Longwood, Florida, on November 2 at 3 p.m. (livestreamed at rollinghillsmoravian.org), and at Friedberg Moravian Church in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, on Nov. 8 at 2 p.m., with visitation beginning at 11 a.m. The Friedberg service will be livestreamed at friedberg.church/shelton. An obituary can be found here.

Each of us is affected by loss in different ways. The Wake Forest community is encouraged to seek support by calling 336-758-CARE (2273) or visiting the We Are Wake website to learn more about resources offered by the University.