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In memory of

John Robert Shackelford

Stockton, CA, USA

March 31, 1953 - January 26, 2020

Mar 31, 1953 - Jan 26, 2020

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John Robert Shackelford, 66, of Stockton, CA passed away on Sunday, January 26, 2020, surrounded by family. He was born on March 31,1953 in Geneseo Illinois to Delores Soderfelt and Robert Shackelford. He grew up in Stockton, graduating from Stagg High School. John enjoyed improving Stockton's homes and landscapes through his Johnny Appleseed landscaping & general contractor business. His final working years were spent as a private investigator and business owner. He was a prominent member and speaker of the Gideon’s International Christian organization, John enjoyed decades of service sharing God's Word and the redeeming power of Christ.

He is survived by the love of his life, Lajla, with whom he enjoyed over 41 years of marriage. John is also survived by four children Robert Smith and wife Laura, Joshua Shackelford and wife Kate, Johan Shackelford and wife Sandra, Sabina (Shackelford)Tackett and husband Mike, and eleven grandchildren.

John was known for his amazing love for Christ. That same love poured out upon people in his presence. Those who had the pleasure of meeting John, had the pleasure of meeting a beautiful representative of God's love. No matter who, when, or where you met him you could be sure you received his genuine love, care, and compassion. A Christ-like love flooded his surroundings in his nearly 30 years of work as a Gideon, bringing bibles to inmates, townspeople, or students, and in his personal & professional lives, he showed a true passion for people. John never forgot a face or a name, and never tired of connecting with people. John had an incredible faith in God that allowed him to share endless stories and testimonies. He leaves an immense legacy of love and faith in his wake. To say he will be missed is not enough. He was the personification of the redeeming power of Jesus Christ and what it means to truly follow Him. Surely, the rejoicing in Heaven was great at his arrival.

The memorial service will be held on Monday, February 10, 2020, at 1:00pm at Quail Lakes Baptist Church in Stockton, CA. In lieu of sending flowers, the family asks that people make donations in support of the Gideon’s Organization.

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