Mr. Darrell Vernon Shelton, affectionately called, Buddy, age 66, a resident of De Queen, died Sunday, June 30, 2024, surrounded by his family.

Buddy was the only child born to Vernon Clarence and Virgie Maudie "Top" Davis Shelton in De Queen, Arkansas on July 16, 1957.  Buddy received his Environmental Safety and Technologies associate degree from Cossatot Community College in De Queen.  He was employed by Weyerhaeuser where he was an Inventory Forrester for over 42 years.   Buddy married the love of his life, Carla Jane Cox in De Queen, Arkansas on July 20, 1985, and two sons were born to this marriage. He was an active member of the Friendship Baptist Church where he led singing for 30 years.  He loved music and self-taught himself to play the guitar, and he had a beautiful voice, even though he wouldn't admit it.  Buddy was an avid bowler and was the first person at Pine Bowl in De Queen to bowl the perfect 300 score.  Buddy was active in coaching peewee baseball and basketball and later umpired for 15-plus years.  He was an avid reader and a University of Oklahoma fan.  But his best time spent was with his family.

Buddy was preceded in death by his parents.

He leaves to cherish his memory, his wife of almost 39 years, Carla Jane Shelton of De Queen; two sons and daughters-in-law, Bryan Scott and Ashley Shelton of De Queen, and Randall Eric and Ashley Shelton of Ozark, Arkansas; two grandchildren, Jaxon Ty Shelton and Emery Jane Shelton both of De Queen, as well as a number of loving cousins, other family members and a host of friends.

Funeral Services for Mr. Darrell "Buddy" Shelton will be held at 10:00 A.M., Wednesday, July 3, 2024, in the Chandler Funeral Home Chapel with Bryan Scott Shelton and Bro. George Frachiseur officiating.  Interment will follow in the West Otis Cemetery.  Visitation will be Tuesday, July 2, 2024, in the Chandler Funeral Home Chapel from 6:00 – 8:00 P.M.  Arrangements are entrusted to Chandler Funeral Home, De Queen, Arkansas.  You may send an online condolence at www.chandlerfuneral.com.