AUGUSTA ? Gwendolyn V. Shelton, 81, of 25 South St., died Jan. 15, 2002, at Maine Medical Center, Portland. She was born in Bath, April 23, 1920, the daughter of Velma B. (Turner) and Joseph Loring Dow. She attended schools in Northfield, Vt., Cony High School, and graduated from Erskine Academy in 1938. Gwen married Guy E. Shelton on July 6, 1943. She graduated from Augusta Academy of Beauty Culture and was a cosmetologist for 43 years. She was a charter member, past president and officer of the Augusta affiliate of the National Hairdresser Cosmetology Association, and a charter member of the Augusta affiliate of the International Toastmistress Club Inc. Gwen was predeceased by her husband of 57 years, Guy Shelton, in 2001, and a brother, Ralph Dow. She is survived by a few cousins and many special friends and neighbors. At her request, a private funeral service will be held and she will lie to rest at Maine Veterans' Memorial Cemetery, Civic Center Drive, Augusta. Arrangements are in the care of Knowlton & Hewins Funeral Home, 1 Church St., Augusta.