Remembering the Life of Tommy Joe Sheppard
Tommy Joe Sheppard, age 89, of Milan, TN, entered into his heavenly home on Saturday, February 8, 2025, at his residence surrounded by his loving family.
He was born on Saturday, June 1, 1935, in Wetumka, OK, the son of the late Geary M and Lulu Lilli Sheppard Tom’s life was a testament to his dedication, warmth, and passion for education. Tom devot - ed forty-one years to teaching fifth grade in the Escondido Union School District in Escondido, CA. His unwavering commitment to his students earned him numerous accolades, including Teacher of the Year multiple times and recogni- tion as Man of the Year in Escondido. His impact on the lives of those he taught will forever be re- membered.
He graduated from Wetumka High School be fore pursuing higher education at East Central State in Ada, OK, where he earned his under graduate degree and master’s degrees in edu- cation from Wichita, KS. Tom was not only an educator but also served in the Army National Guard, achieving the rank of Ser -
geant (E5).
A member of Bethel Baptist Church in Escondido, CA, from 1962 until his relocation to Tennessee in 2005, Tom continued his service at First Baptist Church of Milan, TN. There, he took on the roles of deacon and Sunday school teacher, embodying his commitment to faith and community.
Tom was known for his quick wit and ability to leave a smile on the faces of everyone he met. A one-of-a-kind individual, he never met a stranger and was always ready with words of encourage- ment. His heartfelt expressions of love resonated throughout his family and friendships, as he frequently reminded them, “I love you forever." He nurtured a passion for the arts, primarily focusing on col or pencil work, but also experimenting with watercolors, oils, and palette knife painting. This love for creativity was a reflection of his vibrant personality.
Tom is remembered lovingly by his wife of fifteen years, Betty Jackie Sheppard. He leaves behind his sons Tommy Joe Shep pard II and wife Pam, Todd Alan Sheppard and wife Kellye Cash, and stepson, Steve Maroney and wife Holly, along with his stepdaughter Rita Morgan and husband Joel. He is also survived by his brother Ron Sheppard. His legacy continues through his grandchildren Lauren Corson (Eric), Laurel Donovan (Garrett), Brady Sheppard (Lauren), Cassidy Spencer (Tan - ner), Tatum Filegar (Josiah), Meredith Maroney Franz (Ryan), Molly Maroney, Madison Maroney, Caleb Morgan (Gabby), Eli Morgan, Anna Morgan, and Ben Morgan, as well as his great-grandchildren Blythe Corson, Hadlee Corson, Emmett Donovan, Everett Donovan, Sutton Sheppard, Molly Sheppard, Millie Morgan, along with Lillian Spencer, who
is due to arrive in March 2025.
Tom was preceded in death by his parents Geary M. and Lulu L. Sheppard and his first wife of 48 years, Irma Sue Sheppard.
A memorial service to honor Tom’s life was held on Saturday, February 15, 2025 at 12:00 noon, at The First Baptist Church of Milan, TN.
The family is requesting that memorial contributions in Tom’s memory be directed to First Baptist Church, Milan, c/o church missions or The Ministry Residency @ First Baptist Church Milan, 2000 2nd Street, Milan, TN 38358 Tommy Joe Sheppard’s unyielding spirit, love for education, and commitment to his family and faith leave a lasting mark on all who knew him. His life was a beautiful tapestry woven with love, laugh -
ter, and a dedication to making the world a better place.