Jerry Lee Shepard Sr.

Jerry Lee Shepard, Sr. age 77 of Smyrna, TN formally from Russellville, TN passed away Friday, January 30, 2026.

Jerry proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. He attended Morristown-Hamblen East High School, Class of 1967. In 1980, he moved to Nashville, Tennessee, where he began his career as a Civil Engineering Tech after taking classes at the Alvin C. York Rehabilitation Center. He retired from Neel-Schaffer, Inc., from the Murfreesboro office, where he was known for his dedication and strong work ethic.

Jerry was a man of quiet strength, deep love for his family, and a warm, contagious smile that will be remembered by all who knew him. He faced life with courage and grace.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Patricia Shepard (Smyrna), his father, George Shepard (Russellville); and his sister, Linda “Diane” Mayes (Morristown).

He is survived by his mother: Ann Shepard of Russellville; his mother-in-law: Ann Yearwood of Smyrna, sister: Susie (Robert) Bruce (Athens), children: Lee Shepard (Tammy) of Russellville and Rodney Shepard and former wife, Heather Greer of Smyrna; his grandchildren, Wesley, Heather, Kara, Jada, Maya, and Elijah Shepard; and extended family and friends who will continue to miss his contagious smile.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, February 27, 2026, at Roselawn Memorial Gardens, located at 5350 NW Broad St, Murfreesboro Tennessee.Time:TBD

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to those who lovingly cared for Jerry during his time of sickness: Mackenzie Skinner, Ann, Tammy & Heather Shepard, Gabriella Fox, and Michelle Greir (caretakers), Johnson City VA Hospital, especially Lori and Danielle, and Jefferson City Health & Rehabilitation Center, especially Amber, Rachel, Julie, Tara, Shelly, and Jessica P. Thank you for making his final days comfortable and for treating him with dignity and compassion.