Dr. Tom Shelton, a longtime educator who spent nearly two decades with Daviess County Public Schools before becoming president and CEO of United Way of the Bluegrass, has died at age 62, according to a report from the Lexington Herald-Leader.
Shelton, who lived in Owensboro for more than 25 years, built a respected career in both public education and nonprofit leadership. He led Daviess County Schools as superintendent from 2004 to 2011 and later served as superintendent of Fayette County Public Schools and executive director of the Kentucky Association of School Superintendents.
In late 2025, Shelton was named CEO of United Way of the Bluegrass, an organization serving 10 counties in Central Kentucky. He had previously served as board president for United Way of the Ohio Valley during his years in Owensboro.
In a 2025 interview with Owensboro Times, Shelton said, “I wouldn’t be where I am at all if I hadn’t had the life experiences and career experiences I had in Owensboro. It was a great place to raise a family and start my career.”
At United Way of the Bluegrass, Shelton oversaw a broadening of the organization’s role from fundraising to direct service. Under his leadership, the organization expanded its 211 referral line, which connects Kentuckians with housing, food, and employment resources, and opened WayPoint community centers to better reach underserved neighborhoods.
Shelton’s passion for education and public service never wavered. He remained active in advocacy efforts, including the Protect Our Schools coalition, and spoke often about the need to support all students, regardless of where they attend school.
In the months before his passing, Shelton spoke with excitement about the work still ahead at United Way.
“This is a great way to wrap up my working years — continuing to serve the public and make an impact,” he said.
Funeral arrangements and a cause of death have not been released.
