Gerald R. Sheppard's Obituary
Decatur-Gerald R. 'Jerry' Sheppard, 80, of Decatur, was reunited in Heaven with his dear wife at 8:30 a.m. Sunday, April 10, 2011 at McKinley Court.
Graveside services to celebrate Jerry's life will be 11 a.m. Thursday, April 14, 2011 at Graceland Cemetery. Interment with military honors will be in Graceland Cemetery. Graceland/Fairlawn Funeral Home is assisting the family with these arrangements. Online condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.gracelandfairlawn.com.
Jerry was born May 30, 1930 in Decatur the son of Robert and Lela Sheppard. He proudly served his country in the USMC during the Korean War. Jerry was a superintendent for Christy-Foltz Inc. He married Armilda Jean (Mann) Coleman on February 13, 1971. She preceded him in death December 17, 2010. Jerry was a very active member of BPOE Post 401 and was past exalted ruler. He was a deputy director for the Area Elks Association. Jerry and Jean tirelessly raised funds for the Elk's Crippled Children's Fund. Jerry enjoyed golf, bowling, and gardening. He especially enjoyed woodworking and gave many special pieces to his family and friends.
He leaves behind his step-children; Forrest L. 'Bud' Coleman and wife Verna of Decatur, Evelyn Coleman and significant other Dan Martin of Decatur, and Judy Bullock Tatham and husband Vern of Fountain Hills, Arizona, step-grandchildren; Kris Coleman of Decatur, Kimberly Brockman and husband Clay of Normal, Tom Tatham and wife Erin of Decatur, and Mike Tatham of Scottsdale, Arizona, and step-great-grandchildren; Kenley Brockman of Normal, and Sam and Chloe Tatham of Decatur.
He was preceded in death by his parents and wife.
The family would like to give a special thanks to the nurses and staff at McKinley Court for their compassionate care of Jerry his last months.
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