Apryl Natalie Shackelford FOSTER

FOSTER, Apryl Natalie Shackelford

33, went missing on Feb. 12, 2015. The City of Tampa and the world embraced her as they desperately searched for her. She was found on Feb. 22, 2015 after having a tragic car accident. Apryl was born in Nebraska and graduated from Gretna High School where she received many vocal awards. She attended the University of Wyoming. Apryl moved to Ft. Myers in 2003 working at the Lani Kai Hotel and Resort, as a professional vocalist and entertainment director for over ten years. Apryl always enjoyed singing since childhood, and competed in singing competitions winning The American Idol Experience Competition at Disney in Orlando in 2012. After moving to Tampa, Apryl was hired by the Richard Gonzmart family as they opened their new restaurant, Ulele's in Tampa Heights. There she was involved in the training of servers and wait staff, as well as being a server, becoming affectionately known to many, as "Little Mom" or the girl with the Princess Leia Star War hair buns. Her three amazing cats "the ladies", which she loved as much as any mother would their children, were always a source of constant joy and blessing to Apryl. Apryl will be remembered for her great sense of humor, her incredible crafting and design abilities, her talented writing skills, and her amazing singing, described by one of her follower's as the" voice of an angel" but most of all for her radiant smile. Apryl will be remembered for her love and compassion for others and her unwavering allegiance to encourage and help those who were in need, who crossed the paths of her life. On her last night, a surveillance tape shows her stopping to give assistance to a street person. She will truly be missed by her family, friends, co-workers and especially her mom and dad. Apryl is survived by her, parents, Rev. Craig and Peggy Beman of Stephenville, TX; and many family members' and friends. A Celebration of Life service will be held Saturday, Feb. 28, 8:30 am, on the green behind The Ulele Restaurant in Tampa Heights. A memorial fund has been established for a Tampa Heights Aboretum Project to continue enhancing the landscape of the Tampa Heights riverfront area that she loved so much. At this time proceeds can be sent to Apryl Foster Memorial c/o of Craig & Peggy Beman at 270 West College St., Stephenville, TX 76401. Arrangements are entrusted to Blount & Curry Funeral Home - Carrollwood Chapel (813)968-2231.