Ralph Shackelford

Ralph Shackelford, 89, of West Plains, passed from this life on Saturday, January 20 ^th, 2018 at NEA Baptist Hospital in Jonesboro, Arkansas. He was born March 1 ^st , 1928 to the late Joseph and Lela Shackelford in Manila, Arkansas.

Ralph has lived in West Plains for the past 15 years.

In addition to his parents, Ralph is preceded in death by brothers, Kenny Shackelford, Joe Shackelford, Donald Shackelford, and Doug Shackelford.

Ralph is survived by his wife, Sandra Shackelford of the home; sons, Gary (Lisa) Shackelford of Jonesboro, Arkansas, and David (Rebecca) Shackelford of Highland, Arkansas; daughters, Nancy (Frank) White of Heth, Arkansas, Laura (Greg) Lute of Hardy, Arkansas, Brenda (Lamar) Wright of Hardy, Arkansas, and Linda (Armondo) Salmon of Woodlake, California; brothers, Terry Shackelford of Hardy, Arkansas and Harry Shackelford of Hardy, Arkansas; sister, Pauline (Jim) Finney of Mesa, Arizona and 30 grandchildren as well as 29 great-grandchildren.

Ralph had a love for people. When you think of him, his stories, wry comments, and “old timey” sayings come to mind.  Ralph loved to travel with his wife Sandra, and you could tell by the smile on his face how he loved meeting new people.  He was a child of God, and enjoyed getting to fellowship with his church family. He also enjoyed spending time with his family, and each grandchild held a special place in his heart. He often spoke of the time spent with his daughter’s extended family, and the wonderful memories made with them in California and Mexico. Ralph had a spirit about him that could light up a room. We will all miss him dearly, especially the stories he told to each of us over the years.

Funeral Service will be 12:30 pm Saturday, February 3rd, 2018 at First Christian Church is West Plains with Brother Rick Rutledge officiating. Burial will follow at Baker Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Cancer Pie Fund of First Christian Church, 422 West Main Street, West Plains, Missouri.