Brandon Kay Shields

Brandon Kay Shields, 59, of Blytheville, passed away Oct. 24, 2024, in Jackson, Tenn.

Brandon spent most of his life in Blytheville enjoying his music and serving others in his community.

When Brandon was 16 years old, he joined the Explorer’s Post and Emergency Squad, volunteering with local law enforcement. After graduating from Blytheville High School, Brandon worked part-time farming, welding, and in construction. At 21, Brandon was officially hired as a patrolman for Gosnell Police Department. In 1991, he earned a spot as a full-time fire fighter and driver for Blytheville Fire Department, but did not stop his law enforcement career. He also ran a lawn service and limousine service in his spare time. In 2005, Brandon enlisted in the Arkansas Army National Guard program. Before shipping off to basic training, he participated in the Recruit Sustainment Program (RSP). A year and a half after enlisting, Brandon had attended basic training, truck driving, advanced individual training, the Warrior Leaders Course, and the Army instructor’s course. Shields was pulled from the RSP to help train new recruits to fill the ranks of the 1123rd Transportation Company, and later made two deployments with the 39th Infantry Brigade Combat Team to Taji and Bagdad, Iraq.

Sergeant Brandon Shields received two Army Achievement Medals for exceeding the normal scope of his duties and the Army Commendation Medal for exceptional service during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Brandon Shields’ success exemplifies the highest traditions of military service, reflecting great credit upon himself, 1123rd Transportation Company, the 1st Squadron 152nd Cavalry, and the United States Army.

Following his honorable discharge, Brandon spent his time traveling, riding his Harley Davidson, cycling, creating stunning pieces of art, and raising farm animals, including his llama, Frances.

Brandon was preceded in death by his sister, Marti Shields Bearden of Blytheville.

He is survived by his mother, Janet Green of Blytheville; father Sammy Shields of Jonesboro; sisters, Dana Shields of Blytheville and Sarah Green of Portland, Ore.; son Justin Lowe; granddaughter, Riley of Houston, Texas; lifelong friend, Anthony Little (Mart Bell, MD) of Cynthiana, Ky.; nieces and nephews who adore him; and hundreds of friends with stories to tell!

A memorial service was held Saturday, Nov. 23, at the First Christian Church in Blytheville. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.cobbfuneralhome.com.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Wounded Warrior Project or local animal shelter.