Bellevue Baptist Church mourns after pastor Tim Shelton dies at 53

This story has been updated to correct Shelton's Age according to Baptist Memorial Hospital's records.

The Bellevue Baptist Church community is mourning the death of pastor Tim Shelton, who died suddenly on Saturday, Oct. 7, at 53. He is survived by his wife, Susan, and their five sons.

Shelton went into cardiac arrest during a triathlon on Saturday, the church said in a statement posted on social media.

"Known for his kindness toward everyone, Tim touched many lives as he consistently lived out the faith he professed. While we grieve Tim's absence, we grieve with much hope, and we rejoice that he is now in the presence of the Lord Jesus," Bellevue Baptist Church's statement read.

Shelton has worked as a pastor to young married couples and families since 2002 according to his LinkedIn profile. He also studied at the Mid-America Baptist Theological Seminary in Cordova.

The news of Shelton's death has led to an outpouring of support, from hundreds of comments on Bellevue Baptist Church's post to others around the state who knew Shelton.

"I will never forget Tim's role in welcoming me to Bellevue back in 2007. I had made a mess of my life. I needed love, forgiveness, acceptance, and a new start. Tim was among a handful of people who especially welcomed me to the Bellevue family with open arms and helped get me connected and moving forward in my life and in the life of that Church. I thank God for and honor Tim today." said Chris Bowman, minister at Global Vision Bible Church in Mt. Juliet, wrote on a post on Facebook.

Funeral arrangements are pending, Bellevue Baptist said.

Jordan Green covers trending news for The Commercial Appeal. She can be reached via email at Jordan.Green@commercialappeal.com or on Twitter @_green_jordan_

This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: Tim Shelton, Memphis pastor at Bellevue Baptist Church, dies at 53