A Legacy of Care: Celebrating Years of Caring with Kim Shackleford, MSN, RN and Family
5/7/2025
POPLAR BLUFF, MO – For more than two decades, healthcare has been a deeply rooted part of the Shackleford family's life—and much of that story has taken place at Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center. Although Kim Shackleford, MSN, RN, officially joined the hospital in January 2022 as the stroke program coordinator, her connection with the hospital began long before that.
“I actually worked in partnership with the hospital for 22 years through my role in higher education,” she explained. “Even before that, my interest in healthcare started in high school when I took a CNA and EMT class. That experience launched my journey into nursing.”
She worked as a nurse for about ten years before transitioning into higher education, where she taught and directed nursing programs. Eventually, the desire to return to clinical care brought her back to the hospital setting.
“Three years ago, I knew I wanted to be back in a hands-on role. Coming to PBRMC, it just felt like the right fit—it’s always been part of my professional life in one way or another.”
But her connection to the hospital extends well beyond her career. Healthcare is truly a family tradition.
“I have many family members who have worked—or are currently working—here at PBRMC,” she said. That includes her husband, Alan Shackleford, a cardiovascular operating room (CVOR)-RN; their son, Garrett, an intensive care unit (ICU)-RN; her brother-in-law, Kevin, a nurse extern currently attending nursing school; her sister-in-law Kristi, a patient sitter also in nursing school; her other sister-in-law Kim, who previously worked as a progressive care unit (PCU)-RN; her niece Kayli, a certified nursing assistant (CNA)/patient sitter; and her nephew Nathan, who manages environmental services. Several others have also contributed over the years. Altogether, the family has more than 35 years of combined service at the hospital.
“Working alongside my husband years ago in the emergency department was a unique experience,” she recalled. “It was a hectic time—we had two young kids—but it was also incredibly rewarding. We've witnessed a lot of changes together, including the transition from Doctor’s Regional Medical Center to what the hospital is today.”
She believes the family’s connection to the hospital reflects deeply held values.
“Having so many family members serve in different capacities here shows our commitment to helping people in our community get better and live healthier lives,” she said. “We’ve been fortunate to stay close to home while still finding meaningful, fulfilling career paths.”
One of her proudest moments has been watching her son, Garrett, become a registered nurse. “The way he cares for his patients and takes pride in his work makes both his dad and me incredibly proud,” she said. “And now, when my sister and brother-in-law finish nursing school, all of my husband’s siblings will be RNs. That’s pretty special.”
To those just starting their careers at Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center, she offers heartfelt advice: “I hope you chose this career to make a difference. If so, give it your all—never give less than 100%, and always strive to provide exceptional care.”
When asked how she hopes her family’s legacy will be remembered, her answer is humble and deeply sincere.
“It’s not important to me that our names are remembered,” she said. “What matters most is that the impact we’ve had on the community continues to be felt.”
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