James E. Shuffield

Dr. James E. Shuffield, Sr., retired orthodontist, died February 16, 2026 at the age of 92. Jim and his wife Nancy shared a wonderful life of love and laughter for almost 70 years.

Jim was born in Nashville, AR on October 24, 1933, and grew up in that area. During his Junior and Senior High school years, Jim was First Chair Clarinet in the High School band for five years and Senior High Class President. Prior to seeking a Dental degree at the University of Tennessee, he attended Arkansas State Teacher’s College.

After graduation from Dental School, being sworn in the Navy and marrying Nancy, all in the same week, the couple headed to Pensacola, Florida for 2 years of service at the Naval Air Station Dental Corps. 

After seven years of practicing general dentistry, Jim went back to graduate school for two years to get his Masters Degree in Orthodontics at Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri. It was in St. Louis where he met his dear buddy, also from Arkansas, Dr. Harry Ryburn, who became closer than a brother, a relationship that continues to this day. He set up his orthodontic office in Little Rock and for nearly forty years treated and loved on many special people. Jim continued his education by taking courses all over the country learning new techniques and innovations in both orthodontics and orthognathic surgeries. Being active in his professional constituents, Jim served as President of the Southwestern Society of Orthodontics, as well as other leadership offices in the Society. Jim was a Rotarian and became a Paul Harris fellow. He was Chairman of Pierre Fauchard Academy of Arkansas for several years.

Jim loved being a part of his church community which included Pulaski Heights Baptist and Immanual Baptist, where he served as a choir member, Sunday School teacher, and served on the Board of Deacons and as Chairman of the Board at each church. Jim was an avid Razorback fan. He attended as many of the season and bowl games as he could-passing his love of the Razorbacks to his children. He loved playing golf with his brother, sons and grandsons. He had a bond with three other orthodontists from Kansas City and Texas. The four couples traveled extensively throughout the United States and much of Great Britain, playing golf at many famous courses.

Jim was proceeded in death by his parents, Cecil and Mildred Shuffield, his twin brother in infancy, Jack Craig, and his younger brother, Charles Shuffield. He is survived by his wife Nancy and their three children, Dr. James E. Shuffield, Jr. (Jill), Susan Elliott (Luis), and Dr. John A. Shuffield (Pam), his granddaughters, Catherine Ross (Ian), Annie Elliott (Grant), Mary Elliott (Mert), and Emily Elliott (Nick), and his grandsons Robert Shuffield (Allie), Ben Shuffield (Joanna), Jack Shuffield (Kaitlyn), and Luke Shuffield (Caroline), and Denver Hudson. He is also survived by his sister-in-law Sherron Shuffield, as well as precious nieces, nephews and cousins. One of Jim’s greatest joys was watching and playing with his seven great- grandchildren, who called him “Papa Jim”.

There will be a reception in the Gathering Hall at Immanuel Baptist Church Saturday, February 21 st at 1 pm with the funeral service following at 2 pm in the sanctuary. The officiants for the service will be Ben Shuffield and Phil Spigner. Pall Bearers are Robert Shuffield, Ben Shuffield, Jack Shuffield, Luke Shuffield, Rick Kissire, Nick Brown, Chuck Tennyson and Edwin Matthews. Internment will be at Forest Hills Cemetery on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at 10 am. 

Memorials may be made to Immanuel Baptist Church or a charity of your choice.