David Shields

David Shields, 73, of New Albany, Mississippi passed from this life Sunday, November 6, 2022 at his home.

Born December 15, 1948 in Jonesboro, Arkansas, he was the son of Edward and Charlene Jackson Shields. David lived the majority of his adult life in Northeast Arkansas before moving to New Albany in 2011 shortly after the birth of his first grandson. He worked throughout the Southeast US as a dragline operator for 20 years digging various channels and waterways including the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway. He then worked more than 20 years at Nucor Yamato Steel as a crane operator until he retired in 2010.

David was a U.S. Marine Corps veteran of the Vietnam War and a Purple Heart recipient.

Outside of work David spent his time on projects at home and helping others whether it be neighbors, family members, friends or at his church. While he accomplished much during his life through jobs and service, he was most proud of his family. When he was not working and after retirement his time was spent enjoying his children and grandchildren.  David's family knows his love for them well as he showed them through his actions and made sure to tell them often.

David is preceded in death by his grandparents, Ruel and Bertha Jackson; parents; brother, Dale Shields; and sister, Jan Lockhart. Survivors include David’s wife of 52 years, Dee of the home; son, Matthew Shields of New Albany; daughter, Melissa (Chris) Glasson of New Albany; brother, Edward Duane (Joan) Shields of Flint, Michigan; sister, Sherriell (Edward) Lewis of Flint Michigan; 3 grandchildren, Easton, John Logan and Charlee Glasson; along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held Thursday, November 10, 2022 from 12:30 to 2:00 pm at Emerson Memorial Chapel in Jonesboro, AR.  Service will begin at 2:00 pm with Tom Cromwell officiating.  Burial will follow at Woods Chapel Cemetery near Paragould with Military Honors.