Tommie Eugene "Gene" Shackelford, Sr. was born September 15, 1930, to the late Tom and Jennette Shackelford. Gene was the oldest of five children. Gene met Helen McNeely and they married on October 18, 1952. They had three children and built their home in Postelle in 1967.  Gene worked for Dixie Furniture Company for over 40 years where he was known as "Mr. Dixie". After retirement Gene enjoyed visiting his friends and the shut-ins.  Gene always had a story to tell, loved to have a good laugh and enjoyed being with his family and friends. Gene was saved as a child at Rehoboth Church and was a member of County Line Baptist Church.

On February 24, 2022, at the age of 91, Gene was called to his Heavenly home. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Helen McNeely Shackelford; siblings, Jimmy Shackelford, Mack and Cora Reeves and Mary McVay.

He is survived by sister, Joyce Baker (Ralph); son, Tommie Shackelford Jr (Deborah); daughters, Debra Hickman (Mr. Buddy) and Lori Howard (Barry); grandchildren, Jamie Cook, Corey Shackelford (Courtney), Danielle Hamilton (Anthony), Nick Shackelford (Michelle) and Christy Phillips; great-grandchildren, Abbie Hamilton, Landen Kelly, Jagger Hall, Kevin "Bean" Cook, Layla Shackelford, Kailyn Hickman, Charlie Kate Shackelford, Marshall Shackelford and Ruth Sappington.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Elite Hospice of Forrest City for their care and compassion shown during this time.

Memorials can be sent to the Marvell Cemetery Association c/o Joe Kemmer PO Box 205, Marvell, AR 72366.

A funeral service for Gene Shackelford will be at 2:00 p.m., Monday, February 28, 2022 at Bob Neal & Sons Brickell Funeral Home in Marvell.  Visitation will begin one hour prior to the service.  Burial will be at Marvell Cemetery.