Officer Kenneth Shelley officially retired from the Graceville Police Department on September 1, 2023, after twenty-three years of devoted service. On Friday, September 29, Mr. Shelley was presented with a plaque of recognition during a luncheon by City Manager Michelle Watkins, Police Chief Jake Barley, and Mayor Arthur Obar. During which Kenneth Shelley received many praises for his commitment and service to the Graceville community.
Later that evening, Kenneth Shelley was surprised by his wife, Becky Shelley, with an dinner at Circle Grill. Where he was greeted with heart-warming gratitude for his commitment and involvement with the local community by friends and family that filled the restaurant. Kenneth and Becky Shelley were more than happy that those in attendance included their two sons and wives: Eli and Samantha Shelley, and Steven and Mindy Shelley. Something that rarely happens with their children devoted to service to the community and nation through the Lord and their own paths in life. However, their oldest son Ken Shelley and his wife Jennifer Shelley were unable to attend, for Ken is stationed in Virginia on active duty in the army reserves.
During an interview with The Graceville News, Kenneth Shelley quickly noted his experience as a resource officer at Graceville High School was his most rewarding role as an officer with The Graceville Police Department. It was clear that he valued the time he spent shaping the youth in our local community above anything else. Taking very seriously the opportunity to guide students down the right path during the most influential period of their development into responsible and reasonable adults. A truly respectful point in his career to put at the top of his list of valued experiences in the almost two and a half decades he spent dedicated to protecting and serving.
During his time sworn to the badge, Mr. Shelley’s wife, Becky Shelley, has been by his side with unwavering support during his commitment to law enforcement, one of the most dangerous jobs anyone can take on. Mrs. Shelley admitted to “worrying every time he left the house” in the beginning but found peace when she “turned it over to God.” Becky Shelley shifted her focus on giving thanks to our Lord and Savior for Mr. Shelley’s safe return every time he was called out on duty. Upon reflecting on his career, Mrs. Shelley also noted that she will miss his involvement with animal control the most, for she has a reciprocal love for animals, and was grateful to be able to help out with these calls from time to time.
When asked what is next, Kenneth Shelley said he is ready to “get back to family.” After buying a new black convertible Mustang as a retirement gift, he and his wife spoke about traveling and enjoying their new car and free time together. Kenneth and Becky Shelley mentioned many places they would like to visit, with St. Augustine being at the top of his list. However, they both agreed they are most likely heading to Virginia on their first road trip, to see their oldest son Ken and his wife Jennifer, who they “miss very much.”
Kenneth Shelley is truly the salt of the Earth. He had no interest in tooting his own horn when reflecting on his time in law enforcement. Instead, he spent most of his time expressing gratitude for the City of Graceville administration, his coworkers at The Graceville Police Department, and all the members of the community. Taking very seriously his oath to protect and serve, Mr. Shelley wore his badge with a humbled sense of pride. During our conversation, it was clear he woke up each day ready and willing to do what it takes to make sure every citizen in the community felt safe and supported. As a reliable member of law enforcement, Kenneth Shelley will be sorely missed, leaving behind big shoes to fill at The Graceville Police Department. There is no doubt that the Graceville community is just as thankful for Mr. Kenneth Shelley as he is grateful for the opportunity to serve and protect them.
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