William "Carl" Shilling, cherished husband, father, grandfather, friend and lifelong resident of Finley, OK, passed away peacefully in Hugo, OK, on May 8, 2024. Born on April 4, 1938, in Finley, OK, Carl's life was a testament to his enduring strength, kindness, and dedication to his loved ones and community.

Carl honorably served his country in the US Navy before returning home to Finley. He would eventually become an integral part of the Antlers School system, where he drove school and activities buses for 15 years. He was committed to his community, serving on the Finley Cemetery Board for many years. Carl was a proud member of the National Rifle Association and Kiamichi Saddle Club, reflecting his lifelong love for the outdoors.

A true country boy at heart, Carl loved working with cattle and could skillfully operate any piece of large equipment. This fondness for agriculture stemmed from his high school days, where he raised his own show pigs, a hobby that showcased his work ethic and affinity with animals. Carl was also known for his talent in breaking and riding horses.

Carl is preceded in death by his parents: Wm. "Bo" Shilling and Ruby Shilling; special Aunt: Rose Page; sister: Ruby Jean (Shilling) Bell; grandparents: William Columbus Shilling and Mary Jane (Kelly) Shilling; and son-in-law: Darrell Scarberry.

He is survived by his beloved wife: Delores Ann (Decker) Shilling of the home; children: Scarlet Scarberry, Patty Tucker and husband Martin, Candi Thurman and husband Ellis, and Carla Antu and husband John; grandchildren: Carl Crites and wife Mandy, Anthony Williams and wife Ashten, Chelsea Dill, Brittney Kitchel, Misty Wilder and husband Jonathan, Daylan Henderson and wife Whisper, Ryley Milam and husband Colten, and Jaylee Antu; great-grandchildren: Jaden, Marley, and Jagger Crites, Charlee Donaho, Ally and Cash Williams, Camryn Tucker, Ashtyn and Brody Dill, Tanner and Tucker Kitchel, Heston and Hardy Hughes, step-great-grandchildren Tucker and Ryder Wilder, Hattie Henderson, Rhett Antu, and Caisley, Rynley, and Callyn Milam; great-great-grandchild: Rowan Robertson; other special family members: Niece Joyce "Sissy" Higgs with husband Ron and family; Nephews Larry Bell with wife Marie and family, and Ronnie Bell with wife Anga and family, as well as numerous cousins, other loved ones, and a host of beloved friends.

A family night will be held on Monday, May 13, 2024 from 6-8PM at Serenity Funeral Service. Funeral services will take place on Tuesday, May 14, 2024 at 2PM at the Serenity Funeral Service Chapel with interment to follow at Finley Cemetery.

Services are under the direction of Serenity Funeral Service of Antlers, OK.