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 devoted 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 recognition as Man of the Year in Escondido. His impact on the lives of those he taught will forever be remembered.

He graduated from Wetumka High School before pursuing higher education at East Central State in Ada, OK, where he earned his undergraduate degree and master's degrees in education from Wichita, KS. Tom was not only an educator but also served in the Army National Guard, achieving the rank of Sergeant (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 encouragement. 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 color 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 Sheppard 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 (Tanner), 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.

The family invites those wishing to pay their respects to a memorial gathering at the First Baptist Church of Milan, TN, on Saturday, February 15, 2025, beginning at 10:00 a.m.and continuing until 12:00 p.m., A memorial service to honor Tom’s life will follow at 12:00 p.m. The church is located at 2000 S. 2nd Street, Milan, TN 38358.

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, laughter, and a dedication to making the world a better place.