Michael Todd Shankle

Michael Todd Shankle, 52, of Benton, LA, went to be with our Lord and Savior unexpectedly on July 31, 2024. Michael was born February 3, 1972, in Shawnee, OK, to the late John and Tawana Shankle. He graduated from Southwood High School, Northwestern State University (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) and Xavier University/Charity Hospital (Master of Science in Nurse Anesthesia). His compassion led him to a successful 25-year career as a nurse anesthetist where he loved taking care of people. He felt it was his mission field and would regularly pray with patients before surgery.

Michael always had a big smile on his face. His school teachers even nicknamed him "Smiley." Michael was passionate about experiencing God's creation outdoors, spending countless hours riding four wheelers, hunting and fishing. He felt God's comfort and peace strongly during these outdoor adventures. Michael's love for the outdoors was unsurpassed by the love he had for Jesus and his family. He loved strongly, deeply, and unconditionally. He was patient, kind, humble, encouraging and generous. Michael showered his family daily with scripture, words of affirmation, encouragement, and love. He selflessly put everyone before himself.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 28 years, Shannon Shankle; son, Hayden Shankle; daughter, Hannah Walden and husband Christian; and brothers, John David Shankle and wife Pam and Steven Shankle and wife Rachael, and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and numerous friends.

We are all devastated by this huge loss and he will be forever missed on earth. But our faith lets us know that it's not goodbye, we will meet again and that gives us peace. If you do not know Jesus as your personal Lord and Savior, it would be Michael's desire, if he was still here, for all of us to have that same peace. With that in mind, if you are reading this and you don't know Jesus as your personal Savior, don't hesitate. Ask him to come into your heart today.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, August 10, 2024 at Hill Crest Memorial Funeral Home, 601 Hwy. 80 East, Haughton, LA. Interment will follow at Hill Crest Memorial Park. Visitation will begin at 10:00 am, prior to the service.

Honoring Michael as pallbearers will be John David Shankle, Steven Shankle, Holdon Shankle, Colt Shankle, Brodie Shankle and Brandon Shankle.

The family would like to thank our Willis-Knighton family and abundance of friends for the amazing support during this incredibly difficult time. All the prayers, calls, texts, visits and food have been overwhelming. We love you all so very much.