Jesse Ronnie Sheppard passed away peacefully on Tuesday morning, July 22, 2025, surrounded by his loving children. He was 85 years old. A visitation was held Thursday evening, July 24, 2025, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Gray Memorial Chapel. A celebration of life followed on Friday, July 25, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Greenwood Baptist Church, with Reverend Kim Washburn and Reverend Joe Ferguson officiating.
Interment followed at Cedar Ridge Cemetery.
Jesse was born on July 11, 1940, in Sandersville, Georgia, to the late Emory and Ethel Harrell Sheppard. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 64 years, Charlene Sheppard, and his brother, Emory Bobby Sheppard.
A proud graduate of Lanier Senior High School for Boys, Class of 1959, Jesse went on to build a remarkable 39-year career as a sales manager with Life of Georgia, where he earned numerous awards at annual conventions for his outstanding achievements. He was a man of integrity and drive, and his professional success was only surpassed by the devotion he showed to his family and faith.
Jesse was a faithful member of Greenwood Baptist Church and an annual participant in the cherished Men’s fishing trip to the St. John’s River.
He found great joy in God’s creation, whether hunting, fishing, or tending to his fruit trees and garden. He took special pride in his land and found peace in July 11, 1940 - July 22, 2025
its care.
He was known for his friendly spirit, sense of humor, and deep compassion. Jesse was a loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, whose life reflected the values of faith, family, and generosity. He lived life to the fullest and for the Lord, always leading by example with a kind heart and unwavering love for Jesus.
Jesse is survived by his devoted children; Darryl (Stella) Sheppard and Tiffany (Chuck) Sapp, his grandchildren; Ashton, Trevor (Abby), Thad (Britney), Ivy (Tarver), Christina (Cheyenne), Jonathan (Jennifer), and Wesley (Erin), and his treasured great-grandchildren; Knox, Hayes, Elijah, Marah, Brayden, Jensyn, Jaysen, Noah, Mason, Kayla, Kash, Morgan, Cohen, Dozier, Jaxson, Sophie, Lizzie, and Cole. He also leaves behind his brother; Larry Glenn Sheppard, and his beloved animals; Bella, Danica, and Skyler.
Pallbearers were Thad Hartzog, Trevor Sheppard, Jonathan Crouch, Wesley Crouch, Michael Sheppard, and Marty Sheppard.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Greenwood Baptist Church, 3400 Gray Highway, Gray, Georgia 31032, in honor of Jesse’s enduring love for his church and community.
Gray Memorial Chapel is honored to be entrusted with the care of the Sheppard family. You may share your condolences and memories at graymemorialchapel. com.
Jesse Ronnie Sheppard’s legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew him—as a devoted father, a faithful servant of the Lord, a kind-hearted friend, and a man who found joy in simple pleasures and the people he loved most.
