Shad Lee Reliford

Shad Lee Reliford, 56, of Canal Winchester, passed away Saturday, March 7, 2026, at the Fairhope Hospice Pickering House surrounded by his loved ones. He was born on July 17, 1969, to the late William and Linda Lou (McClurg) Reliford.

Shad worked as a Line Mechanic for Crown Cork and Seal in Lancaster. He absolutely loved music, ranging from Jimi Hendrix to Metallica; he listened to anything. Anyone who knew Shad knew he could absolutely shred on the guitar. He played and owned several guitars for over 48 years. He also took pleasure in going to live shows and seeing different artists perform. Shad enjoyed hanging out with his family, friends, and his dear canine companion, Sasha, whom he loved very much.

Shad lived life to the fullest, and he didn’t let his health stand in the way of doing what he wanted. He was determined to ‘get after it’-- a motivational phrase he and his brother, Josh, shared for many years, meaning to take action, work your hardest, and accomplish your goals, even in times of hardship. They ‘got after it’ within the past couple of years because their health had them bed-bound, and they used this phrase to motivate each other to get out of bed. Shad’s strength never wavered, and he kept his head held high.

Shad is survived by his beloved girlfriend, Amy Jo Badgley; daughter, Judith Jean-Marie Reliford; grandchildren, Ellie, Eli, Emit, and Everly; brother, Joshua Alan Reliford; nephew, Andrew Reliford; and loving extended family, Charles Badgley and Kelli Renshaw. He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Linda Lou.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, March 20, 2026, at 11 am at the Frank E. Smith Funeral Home Chapel. Friends and family may visit at the funeral home on Thursday, March 19, 2026, from 2-4 and 6-8 pm, and again one hour before the service on Friday. Shad will be laid to rest near his parents at Forest Rose Cemetery following the service.

As Shad would always say... GET AFTER IT.

Memorial contributions can be made to Frank E. Smith Funeral Home to help with funeral expenses or to the Lung Cancer Foundation of America, 7381 La Tijera Blvd #451663, Los Angeles, CA 90045.

Frank E. Smith Funeral Home is honored to serve Shad’s family.