Brett Allen Sheldon, 35, of rural Veedersburg passed away unexpectedly Sunday morning, Oct. 1, 2023, in his home with his mom and step-dad at his side.
Brett was born July 29, 1988, at Indianapolis, son of Laura Rogers Duncan and Robert Sheldon. They both survive.
Brett was a 2007 graduate of Fountain Central High School, where he was active in football and baseball. He also played soccer for many years and was a stand-out player with his fancy footwork and scoring ability. Brett became a community hero as he performed exceptionally well as the placekicker for the Fountain Central Varsity football team. During his senior year, he broke the conference record with a 48-yard field goal and made over 50 extra points. Brett attended Franklin College directly out of high school, where he was a placekicker for the Grizzlies football team his freshman year. He then transferred to Purdue University for one year. Eager to play for a Division 1 school, he ultimately transferred to Indiana State University and secured a spot as a walk-on placekicker for the Sycamores. Brett graduated in 2012 from Indiana State University with a BS in Physical Education and Health.
It was during his time at ISU, a local TV station took notice of Brett during spring practice and did a feature story on him. The story caught the eye of a producer for the Dr. Phil Show, and Brett was invited to be a part of the show titled “Driven to Succeed.” While on the show, Brett met Coach Sean Payton of the New Orleans Saints who flew Brett and his family and friends to be the team’s sideline guests at a Saint’s football game. The Indianapolis Colts also hosted Brett as their “12th Man” for one of their home games.
Brett loved God, his family, his friends, and football. Football was his life and passion. He had been an educator in the classroom at both Fountain Central and Lafayette Jeff. He served as an assistant football coach for Fountain Central, and also as the Offensive Coordinator for Lafayette Jeff and Parke Heritage. Brett had a brilliant football mind, and a gift of connecting with his players. He was incredibly proud of the young men he coached and mentored. He passionately encouraged his players to succeed and advance as they matured. Brett was completely invested in them and their success.
Brett was an inspiration to people of all ages. He never complained, and overcame his adversity with dignity and grace. He co-authored a book chronicling his life story, “Kicking the Odds,” and had presented many motivational speeches. Brett had a huge heart and an ever-present smile. He loved spending time with family and friends.
Surviving are his mother and step-father, Laura and Andy Duncan of rural Veedersburg; father Robert Sheldon of Lafayette; sister Mackenzie (Jacob) Wolfe of rural Veedersburg; brother Drew Duncan of rural Veedersburg; grandfather Bob Sheldon of Martinsville; and several aunts, uncles and cousins. He is also survived by a world of friends and fans.
He was preceded in death by grandparents Jesse and Wilma Rogers, Helen Foster, Lawrence and Petzi Duncan and cousin Caleb Duncan.
There will be a gathering of family and friends to celebrate Brett’s life from 3-7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 7 at Family and Friends Funeral Home of Wingate. A sharing of words, reflection and prayer will follow. Dress is casual and encouraged, as this represents what Brett would want. Brett also loved animals, especially his beloved pets; therefore memorial contributions to Paws N Claws or the Animal Welfare League of Montgomery County are preferred in lieu of flowers.
