Johnny Carl Shackelford

Johnny Carl Shackelford, age 83, of Castle Rock, Colorado passed away peacefully on September 13, 2025, at his home with his loving family at his side. He was born on January 18, 1942, in Swan Lake, Kentucky, the son of Loyd Walker and Luria Etta (Bennett) Shackelford.

Johnny grew up in Knox County outside of Barbourville, Kentucky and was grateful for the opportunity to serve in the US Navy, where he was able to explore possibilities that he never imagined as a crew chief with the Blue Angels. After his service, Johnny’s friend set him up on a blind date with Judith Dunn and they spent five years dating before uniting in marriage on March 17, 1979. Johnny and Judith built a loving home across seas where they worked – living in Saudi Arabia. After retirement in 1998, they relocated to California, and most recently moved to Colorado in 2004.

Johnny’s childhood allowed him to learn to appreciate the simple gifts in life. His greatest pride was his home with his wife and children. In 1990, he received his Bachelor of Science degree in professional aeronautics from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. He and Judith were members of St. Francis Catholic Church in Castle Rock.

Johnny is survived by his son Jeffrey Flores and wife Theresa; daughter Jennifer Kelly and husband Mike; sister Geneva H. Shackelford Moore; grandchildren Ellis Kelly, Michaela Kelly, Lance Kelly, and Jacob Flores; nieces Barbara Moore and Floretta Moore; and a special cousin Carolyn Sue Bennett Elliot and husband Leonard; as well as a large extended, loving family. Johnny was preceded in death by his parents, and his wife, Judith.

Funeral mass will be at 10:00am on Wednesday, October 22, 2025 at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church 2746 Fifth St. Castle Rock, Colorado 80104. Inurnment and military honors will be at 1:00pm at Pike’s Peak National Cemetery 10545 Drennan Rd. Colorado Springs, Colorado 80925.