Kenneth Earl Shackelford

Kenneth Earl Shackelford

Kenneth Earl Shackelford, age 74, of Bessie, Oklahoma, was born February 14, 1952, in Roswell, New Mexico, to Leonard and Mattie Mae (Powers) Shackelford. He passed away on May 3, 2026, at his home in Bessie.

Kenneth was raised in the Eakly area and graduated from Eakly High School. Following graduation, he began his career at the Fort Cobb Vo-Tech, where he taught diesel mechanics for a short time. He then proudly and honorably served his country in the United States Air Force. During his service, he was stationed in several locations, including Anchorage, Alaska; Guam; and Vietnam, where he worked as an explosive operator. He was honorably discharged from active duty in 1976.

After returning home, Kenneth spent many years working as a diesel mechanic at Rother Brothers, where he remained until his retirement. Never one to stay idle, he later returned to Fort Cobb Vo-Tech to teach part-time, sharing his knowledge and skills with a new generation.

Kenneth was an avid outdoorsman who loved hunting, fishing, and spending time outside. He took great pride in growing a large garden each year and was always willing to lend a helping hand to others. His generous spirit and strong work ethic were evident in all he did.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Leonard and Mattie Shackelford; his sister, Nancey Sue Klein; and his brothers, Melvin Shackelford, Bobby Shackelford, and Olen Shackelford.

Kenneth is survived by his sons, Michael Shackelford and wife Carrie of Clinton, and Dustin Shackelford and wife Renae of Chickasha; his daughters, Karisa Downing and husband Matt of Clinton, and Stephanie Opitz of Bessie; his brother, Jimmy Shackelford and wife Carol of Fayetteville, North Carolina; ten grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held at 10:00 A.M., Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at the Hyman Memorial Chapel of Lee Hometown Funeral Home, with Adolph Elizondo officiating. A private family burial will follow at Carnegie Cemetery, under the direction of Lee Hometown Funeral Home.