John Richard Shilling

In Loving Memory of John Shilling

John Shilling was the kind of person people were naturally drawn to. He had a gift for making everyone feel comfortable, whether he had known them for years or had just met them moments before. His warm personality, infectious smile, and genuine love for people left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Born to Richard Carmen Shilling and Terri Renee Lodrige, and raised in Gorum, Louisiana, John was proud of his hometown and spoke of it often. He was one of the most outgoing people you could ever meet, with a larger-than-life personality and a heart to match. As a young man, he excelled in both basketball and baseball, using his natural athletic ability to make every team he played on stronger. He was a lifelong fan of the New Orleans Saints and LSU, and few things brought him more joy than a spirited, often hilarious conversation about their latest victories or defeats.

John built a career as a mud logger in the oilfield, a profession he truly enjoyed. He worked hard and took pride in what he did, but no matter how demanding life became, he always made time for the people he loved. For his mother, one of the greatest gifts he gave was his daily phone calls. Through every season of life, those conversations became a cherished part of each day—a simple act of love that will be deeply missed.

Some of his mother’s most treasured memories shared with John were the adventures and travels spent together. From trips to San Francisco and Virginia City to the years spent living together in Grass Valley and Reno, every moment created memories that will be carried forever. One of the most precious of all was spending three unforgettable days and nights with his Uncle Paul aboard a boat on beautiful Lake Tahoe.

John found joy in life’s simple moments. It wasn’t always the grand occasions that mattered most, but the laughter, conversations, and everyday experiences that became priceless with time. When family gathered, John was usually in the kitchen. He loved to cook and had a talent for preparing everything from crab, shrimp, crawfish, Chinese food, stir-fry, egg rolls, and barbecue. His cabbage was a family favorite, and those meals shared around the table will be remembered with love for years to come.

Funny, loving, and full of life, John had a way of bringing people together. His smile, his voice, and his unmistakable sense of humor will remain in the hearts of all who knew him.

Above all else, John’s greatest pride and joy was his daughter, Bella. The love he had for her was deep, unwavering, and unconditional. She was the light of his life, and anyone who saw them together could immediately recognize the special bond they shared. Bella was the center of his world, and he loved her beyond measure. John leaves behind to cherish his memory his parents, Richard and Rita Shilling of Gorum, Louisiana, and Terri Renee Lodrige of Reno, Nevada; his beloved daughter, Bella of Reno, Nevada; his brother, Justin Shilling of Gorum, Louisiana; his sister, Jessica Roberson of Natchitoches, Louisiana; his maternal grandparents, Jospeh and Lila Lodrige; his uncles, Phillip Shilling, Duane Lodrige and Paul Lodrige; along with a host of nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grand-nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who loved him deeply.

Though our hearts are broken by his loss, we are grateful for every memory, every laugh, every trip, every phone call, and every moment we were blessed to share with him. His life touched countless people, and his legacy of love, friendship, laughter, and devotion to family will never be forgotten.

John, you were deeply loved and will be forever missed. We will carry you in our hearts until we meet again. ❤