Leon Franklin "Lee" Shifflett

Capt. (Retired) Leon "Lee" Franklin Shifflett, age 74, passed away on November 15, 2025, in Granbury, Texas. A proud Marine, devoted family man, and respected community leader, Lee lived a life marked by service, dedication, and love.
Born on December 16, 1950, in Baltimore, Maryland, Lee grew up with a strong sense of duty and commitment. He graduated from Howard High School in Ellicott City, MD in 1968 and immediately enlisted in the United States Marine Corps serving in Vietnam. His military career spanned over two decades and was distinguished by valor and leadership.
Lee's Marine Corps career was unique – he was a Mustang Officer. He was promoted to Gunnery Sergent, the 7th of 9 enlisted ranks, in just six years. Lee was the youngest Gunnery Sergeant in all of the Marine Corps. After just eleven years, Lee was promoted to Master Gunnery Sergeant the 8th of 9 enlisted ranks. Once again Lee was promoted well ahead of his peers. Such a fast promotional pace is rare.
Marine Corps leadership saw Lee's exemplar skills and wished to make the best of his potential. Those leaders put Lee on a path to become an officer. First step was to become a Warrant Officer and Lee graduated first in his Quantico Warrant Officer class.
Lee was quickly promoted to First Lieutenant and then to Captain.
Lee's last assignment was at Naval Air Systems Command in the logistics branch of the new CH-53E program. The LtCols and Colonels in the CH-53E program had absolute trust in Lee's judgment because of his career path from senior enlisted to Warrant Officer to Captain. Lee literally knew Marine aviation top to bottom.
Following his retirement from the Marines, Lee continued to pursue his passion for aviation with a successful post-military career. He was quickly hired by Sikorsky Aircraft where he was assigned to the prestigious Presidential Helicopter Program. Bell Helicopter then recruited Lee for their #1 program the V-22 Osprey. He was always assigned to their most important programs reflecting both his technical expertise and unwavering integrity. His work in this field further demonstrated his lifelong dedication to excellence and innovation.
Beyond his professional achievements, Lee was deeply committed to his family. He shared 53 loving years of marriage with his wife, Cynthia "Cindy" Marie Shifflett. Together they built a life centered on love, support, and shared adventure. He was a proud father to Tracie Aorilio, Brian Shifflett (and daughter-in-law Tara Shifflett), and Kathy Girard (and son-in-law Phil Girard). His legacy continues through his grandchildren: Tre Shifflett (Konnor); James "Jammer" Aorilio III (Kaitlyn); Jacie Aorilio (James); Andrew Shifflett; Kayla Osborne (Cole); Lauren Shifflett; Ryan Bruss; Rachel Bruss; Alex Girard; Cash Girard; and Cru Girard. He also leaves behind great-grandchildren Mason and Rowan Shifflett and Oaklynn and Kaycen Osborne.
Lee is survived by his brother Jimmy Shifflett (Debbi) and numerous family members. He was preceded in death by his beloved parents Alice and James "Mervin" Shifflett, son-in-law James "Jimmy" Aorilio and grandson Jonathan "JD" Aorilio.
A man of faith and principle, Lee was a dedicated Mason for over 40 years and served as Grand Master of the Granbury Masonic Lodge. His leadership within the Masonic community reflected the same values he upheld throughout his life: honor, service, fraternity, and compassion.
Lee found joy in simple pleasures-bass fishing, vacationing at the beach with loved ones, exploring new places through travel and cheering for the Cowboys and Rangers. These moments brought him peace and allowed him to share meaningful time with those closest to him.
A true patriot at heart, Lee embodied the spirit of service not only through his military career but also through the countless ways he supported others-as a loving husband of more than five decades, a supportive parent who encouraged every step forward, and a wonderful friend whose loyalty never wavered. He gave the best hugs and never left without saying, "I love you."
Lee will be remembered for his strength of character, steadfast devotion to family and country, and enduring impact on all who had the privilege of knowing him.
May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him and serve as an enduring reminder of a life well lived in service to others. Semper Fi.
A Celebration of Life will be held on November 21, 2025, from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm at Granbury Masonic Lodge 1700 Weatherford Highway. Casual dress - please honor Lee by wearing your favorite T-shirt, jeans and shoes/boots. An internment ceremony will be held at Arlington National Ceremony at a later date.
Given the space limitations, we politely request that you refrain from sending flowers or plant arrangements. If you would like to demonstrate your love and respect for Lee, we propose making a donation to Shriners Hospital for Children or Tunnel to Towers Foundation. Lee would be deeply thankful for those who choose to support a charity close to his heart.