Leonard "Darrell" Shackleford, age 76, of Xenia, Ohio passed away May 15, 2023, with family at his side.  He was born October 19, 1946, in Middlesboro, Kentucky, son of Earl and Myrtle (Sherrill) Shackleford.  He graduated from Xenia High School, Class of 1965.

He married his wife, Bobbie in 1979 and they spent their entire life together in Xenia. They shared 43 wonderful years of marriage together raising their two children that he was so very proud of.

He was preceded in death by his parents.  He is survived by his loving wife Bobbie; daughter Nichole (Lon) Etchison; son Bill Atley; grandchildren, Tyler (Tiffany) Morris, Nikki Atley, Brynn Etchison, and brother-in-law Toby Glass. He is also survived by several great-grandchildren as well as numerous other relatives and friends.

Brynn was known as his best buddy, best friend, best pal in the whole wide world.  When Tyler was a little guy, he said Grandpa was a beautiful human "bean".  Nikki was known as his little cuddle bug.

He loved his family with all his heart and was always there to lend support, encouragement, and a helping hand.  He was happiest when he was with family and friends.

Darrell was a combat Vietnam Veteran serving from 1967-1968 with the 1st Infantry Division, Recon Platoon, Big Red 1.  He received the Purple Heart and the Bronze Star with V-device among many other awards.  His death was a result of exposure to Agent Orange in Vietnam.

He served 23 years with the City of Xenia as a police officer.  During his employment he held many positions and received numerous awards, too many to list.  He enjoyed working with children and the community. He was the first D.A.R.E. Officer for the city of Xenia and a member of the first SWAT Team.  He was well known as the first canine handler.  He and "Bud' were known throughout the area as the "Dynamic Duo".

The family would like to thank Trinity Community of Fairborn for all the love, care and support they showed Darrell and his family.  They were not only caregivers they became dear friends.  Darrell was known as "Papaw" to all the staff.

A celebration of life and visitation will be held at the Greene County FOP Lodge 37 in Xenia on September 17, 2023, from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm with reflections at 1:30 p.m.

A private graveside service will be held at the convenience of the family at a later date.

Contributions may be made to the Vietnam Veterans, St. Jude Children's Hospital or Greene County Animal Control in his memory.