Billy J. Shockley, Sr.'s Obituary
Billy “Bill” James Shockley passed away peacefully on September 29, 2025, at his home in Seaford, DE. He was born in Parsonsburg, MD, on June 30, 1934, to the late James Cleveland Shockley and Daisy Hayman Shockley.
Bill was a graduate of Laurel High School, where he met the love of his life, Janet Lee King. Shortly after they married, Bill enlisted in the United States Army. He was primarily stationed overseas in Germany, serving as an automotive repairman. He received a Certificate of Achievement recognizing his honor and dedication to the 47th Ordnance Group.
After Bill’s honorable discharge, he and Janet settled down in Seaford to begin a family. They welcomed a son in 1959 and a daughter in 1963.
Bill held various jobs during his career, beginning as a car washer for Hallowell Chevrolet and later serving as a service manager at Burton Transportation Center. In his later years, he chose to share his knowledge by teaching automotive classes at Del Tech, retiring in 2000.
Bill had many hobbies—from working in his woodshed and driving his tractors around the yard to relaxing in his recliner watching westerns or cheering on his favorite local sports teams, the Baltimore Ravens and Orioles. He was a lifetime member of the Seaford Elks Lodge and was honored to serve as exalted ruler multiple consecutive times.
Bill lived his life with no regrets and a heart full of love for his family. He is survived by his wife of 71 years, Janet Lee Shockley of Seaford; his children, Billy J. Shockley Jr. of Seaford, and Patricia A. Jester (husband Robert Jester) of Federalsburg; and his beloved grandchildren, Brandy Gongloff (husband Adam), Billy J. Shockley III, Amanda Harris (husband Greg), Courtney Jester (husband Kevin), and Seth Shockley. He is also survived by his great-grandchildren, Caroline, Kennedy, Wesley, Reagan, and Adley, as well as many nieces and nephews.
Per Bill's wishes, he will be cremated, and his ashes will be buried privately in the family plot. A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, October 11, 2025, at 11:00 AM at the Seaford Elks Lodge, located at 8846 Elks Rd, Seaford, DE 19973. Everyone is welcome.
In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests donations in his memory to the Seaford Elks Lodge.
Memorial Contribuitions in Billy's memory are suggested to the Seaford Elks Lodge, PO BOX 476, Seaford, DE 19973-0476
Florist Note- Please deliver any floral tributes directly to the Elks Lodge on Sat. Oct. 11, 2025, by 9 AM.
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