Robert Lloyd Shackelford

Robert Lloyd Shackelford, 76, of Granbury, Texas, passed on November 7, 2025. Born May 21, 1949, in Hale Center, Texas, Robert lived a life marked by quiet strength, steady loyalty, and a thoughtful, gentle nature.
He was the son of John Lloyd Shackelford and Mary McCafferty Shackelford, both of whom preceded him in death. Robert was the youngest of three children; he is survived by his sister, Donna Hall, and preceded in death by his sister, Ausetta Kiser. He also leaves behind extended family-cousins and relatives both here in Texas and in other states, each connected to him in their own way.
For 53 years, Robert was devoted to his wife and steadfast partner, Edith Shackelford, who cared for him with remarkable dedication throughout his courageous fight with cancer.
He was the proud father of his daughter, Diane Fussell-Kendall, who will forever carry his heart, his humor, and his work ethic. Robert's bond with Diane was one of his greatest joys-and one of his proudest accomplishments. He also had genuine care and respect for his son-in-law, Brooks Kendall, and took comfort in knowing Brooks would always take good care of Diane.
He is also survived by his niece and nephews: Jerry "Rusty" Kiser Jr., Veronica "Kaye" Eastham, Rodney Kiser, Shannon Hall, Randy Hall, and James Hall, along with their families.
Animals were woven into Robert's daily life, and two in particular stayed close through his final years. Cookie, his loyal service dog, wasn't just a companion, she was like a daughter to him, faithfully at his side in every moment. Susie was also very dear to him, and the two shared a special bond.
Robert served his country with honor as a Proud Vietnam Veteran. An Army SP4 and Vehicle Mechanic with the Headquarters and Headquarters Battery, 1st Battalion, 55th Artillery Battalion, U.S. Army Europe, he was part of the Ordnance Corps-ensuring that the Army's machinery, weapons systems, and equipment were ready when it mattered most.
Robert served from April 1969 to July 1971 and continued his dedication in the Army Reserve until July 1974. His service earned him several commendations, including the Army Commendation Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, M14 Expert Badge, and Army Overseas Service Bars. He carried the pride of his service throughout the rest of his life.
Robert built a long and humble career serving his community. He worked more than 20 years in the water departments for the Cities of Celina, Prosper, and Frisco, Texas. Later, his deep love of animals led him to work as a Veterinary Technician, a job he approached with the same gentle heart he showed to everyone around him.
Robert was an avid fisherman, an animal lover through and through, and the self-proclaimed king of Dad jokes-the kind that make you groan first, then laugh anyway. He was quiet until he didn't need to be, goofy in all the best ways, and truly one of the kindest souls this world ever got to borrow.
One of Robert's greatest joys was supporting Diane in 4-H and FFA. He stood by her through every project-chickens, rabbits, pigs, heifers-feeding them, hauling them, fixing what needed fixing, and proudly bragging about it all. He taught her the heart behind raising animals, the pride in hard work, and how to let go when the tough moments came. The best parts of her are because of him.
As Diane shared, quoting Dr. Seuss, "Don't cry because it's over, smile because it happened." And if you knew Robert, you know there was a lot worth smiling about. ________________________________________ Service Details – Wednesday, November 12, 2025 Visitation – 1:00 PM Wiley Funeral Home 400 E Highway 377 Granbury, TX 76048
Graveside Service – 2:30 PM Granbury Cemetery 200 E. Moore St. Granbury, TX 76048
Reception – 4:00 PM Randy's Shrimp & Oyster Bar 1300 S Morgan St Granbury, TX 76048