James Shackelford

James "Jim" Richard Shackelford, 67, Topeka, passed away on a beautiful spring day, May 3, 2010. Jim was born on February 20, 1943, the son of John and Lossie Mae Shackelford in Danville, Virginia. He was the fifteenth of sixteen children. He was a member of the 1962 Brosville High School graduating class in Danville. He later graduated from the University of Maryland with a degree in Civil Engineering.

Jim spent 20 years of his life serving in the military: Air Force (8 years); Army (4 years); Marines (4 years); and the Navy (4 years). He was a Vietnam Era Veteran.

He was the Power Plant Manager at the Topeka State Hospital for 30 years, where he met his longtime partner and fiance, Deborah Carlson of the home. Jim was a collector of many things, especially Civil War memorabilia and guns. He was a member of the Masonic lodge, and enjoyed traveling, gardening and flowers, and had a special place in his heart for their family pets. Jim never met a stranger and lived his life caring for others.

Jim is survived by Deborah; his son, Tabbin Shackelford and his wife, Olivia of California; daughter, Tracy Ellison and her husband Greg of Texas; Deborah's children David and Kevin Carlson, and Dana Lemire, all of Topeka; eight grandchildren; three brothers, Phillip and Donnie, both of Danville, VA, Lundy of North Port, FL; three sisters, Gerolean Hardy and Mary Ann Bowman of Danville, VA, Hazel Unser of Hilton Head, SC; his family pets; and many, many dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, six brothers, Clarence, Robert Edward, Raymond, Marvin, Russell, JB (John Billy, Jr.) and three sisters, Gaynell Hall, Ruby Clifton, and Jean Dixon.

Inurnment will take place at Danville Memorial Gardens, 510 Church Ave, Danville, VA next to his mother at a later date.

There will be a memorial service at Brosville United Methodist Church, 12648 Martinsville Highway, Danville, VA. The date and time is pending. A vistation will be held Thursday, May 13, 2010 from 6-8 p.m. at Dove Cremation & Funeral Service.
Anyone wishing to make a memorial contribution is encouraged to give to their family, friends and neighbors as Jim did.