[In Memoriam] Milson Leroy Shackelford, 89

The following obituary originally was published by Clements Funeral and Cremation Services:

Milson Leroy “Roy” Shackelford of Durham passed away on June 2. He was 89.

Shackelford was born March 7, 1935, in Norfolk, Va. He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Inez Shackelford; sister, Carolyn Boser; and daughter, Diana Mueller. He is survived by his devoted wife of 66 years, Frances; daughters, Cathy Jones, Beverly Taylor (John), and Ellen Chancey (Larry); son-in-law, Ralf Mueller; grandchildren, Jennifer Taylor (Luke), Jason Jones (Gemma), Chris Lewis, Elizabeth Bell (Jimmy), David Mueller, Analise Taylor, Sam Chancey (Ember), Miriam Chancey, Rebekah Chancey, Leah Chancey, and Gideon Chancey; 12 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandson.

A 1953 graduate of Kempsville High School (Virginia Beach), Shackelford proceeded to William & Mary Technical Institute (Norfolk), where he earned a diploma in 1956 for radio, electronics, and television. Employed by IBM in 1956, he simultaneously served in the Army (1957-63). Upon retirement from IBM in 1987, he attained his pilot’s license, competed in track and field events, and enjoyed traveling the country by RV with his wife, Frances, and their trusty guard dog, Sophie.

Shackelford and his wife have been faithful members of Wayside Baptist Church (Hillsborough) for many years. Trusting Jesus Christ as their personal Savior, they truly believe “the best is yet to come.”

A funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, June 7, at Wayside Baptist Church in Hillsborough. The family will receive friends prior to the service from 1 to 2 p.m. at the church. Burial will follow in Oak Grove Memorial Gardens in Durham.

The family would like to thank everyone for the many cards, gifts, meals, and prayers during this challenging time. We have been blessed beyond what words can express.

The family is being assisted by Clements Funeral & Cremation Services Inc. in Hillsborough. Online condolences may be sent to www.clementsfuneralservice.com.

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