Edward "Wayne" Shackelford

Edward "Wayne" Shackelford, a man known for his faith-filled heart and loving humor, passed away peacefully on May 14, 2025, in Dothan, Alabama. Born on February 13, 1946, in Coffee County, Alabama, Wayne was a playful soul who brought joy and laughter to all who knew him.

Wayne spent his early years in New Brockton, where he graduated from high school. He then moved to Dothan, where he would lay the foundations of a long and respected career. Wayne first worked with Hayes Aircraft and later with Paige Aircraft, demonstrating a strong work ethic that became his trademark. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to own and operate Tri-State Marble for 14 years, after which he worked with Lewis-Smith Supply for over a decade until his retirement in 2016.

Beyond his professional life, Wayne was a jokester and a mischievous spirit at heart. He was an avid fisherman, often found at Lake Eufaula, where he cherished teaching his nieces and nephews the art of fishing and simply enjoying time with his family. Wayne's playful nature was balanced by his deep faith. A faithful Christian, he was a dedicated member of Dothan First Church of the Nazarene, where he taught Sunday School to special needs children, touching lives with his compassion and patience.

Wayne's love story with his wife, Rebecca "Beckie" Shackelford, was one for the ages, spanning 59 beautiful years. Together, they raised their daughter Amy Shackelford and cherished the memories of their late daughter Leigh Ann Shackelford. His family was his pride and joy, and he was a beloved uncle to several nieces and nephews. Although Wayne was preceded in death by his parents, his siblings John Waylon Shackelford, Betty Gross, and Ann Sanborn, as well as his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Sam and Tallie Riley, his legacy of love and laughter lives on through his family.

A celebration of Wayne's life will be held at 3 pm on Friday, May 16, 2025, at Dothan First Church of the Nazarene, officiated by Pastor Kevin Knight. Friends and family will gather from 2-3 pm on Friday at the church to honor a man who was truly one of a kind. Wayne will be laid to rest at Gardens of Memory Cemetery, leaving behind a community enriched by his presence. Flowers are being accepted, or memorial contributions may be made in Wayne’s honor to Love in Action Ministries, 279 W. Main Street, Dothan, AL 36301.

Serving as active pallbearers are Mark Smith, T.J. Jones, Ron Kaita, Eli Jones, Ryan Benton, and Jim Metcalf. The honorary pallbearers, consisting of Tom Watson, Dan Henderson, and Jimmy Douglas, stand as a testament to the many lives Wayne touched.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Southern Care Hospice for their kindness and care during Wayne's time of illness.

Wayne Shackelford was a man who lived a life full of purpose, love, and laughter. His memory will be cherished, and his spirit will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to have known him. As we say goodbye to this remarkable man, we celebrate the enduring mark he left on our hearts and the example he set for living a life filled with joy, kindness, and unwavering faith.