Robert "Bob" Lee Sheppard

Robert Lee Sheppard, known to many as Bob, was born on March 13, 1949, in Pontiac, Michigan, and passed away on April 13, 2026, at Cookeville Regional Medical Center at the age of 77. He lived a life marked by kindness, humor, hard work, and devotion to the people he loved.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Ethel Sheppard. He was one of 16 children, and the values of family, perseverance, and responsibility that shaped his early years remained with him throughout his life. Those who knew him best will remember that he carried himself with a steady spirit and a warm heart, always ready with a smile, a joke, or a helping hand.

He worked as an auto mechanic and took pride in the work he did. Bob was a true wheeler and dealer, someone who knew how to make things happen and who had a natural gift for working with his hands and solving problems. His skill, determination, and practical knowledge earned the respect of many, and he approached his work with the same honesty and good nature that defined the rest of his life.

Bob was a friendly and funny man who brought lightness to those around him. He had a way of making others feel comfortable, and his sense of humor left lasting memories with family and friends. Whether he was sharing a story, offering advice, or simply enjoying time with those closest to him, he made an impression that will not be forgotten.

He was a member of Post Oak Freewill Baptist Church, where his presence and fellowship were valued. His faith was an important part of his life, and it provided strength and comfort through the years. Bob’s church family and community will remember him as a man who lived with sincerity and who treated others with kindness and respect.

Bob is survived by his wife, Frances Sheppard; his son, Robert Sheppard and his wife, Mary Alice, whom he affectionately called his favorite daughter-in-law, of Cookeville, Tennessee; his daughters, Patsy Renee Sheppard of Cookeville, Tennessee, and Tonya Faye Spurlock of Cookeville, Tennessee; his grandchildren, Aleaha Totman and her husband, Charles, of Cookeville, Tennessee, and Lindsey Parks and her husband, Darren, of Cookeville, Tennessee, Benjamin Ford of Cookeville, Tennessee; and his great-grandchildren, Molleigh Maynard of Cookeville, Tennessee, Mason Maynard of Cookeville, Tennessee, Jake Waller of Cookeville, Tennessee, Rowen Parks of Cookeville, Tennessee, Wrenna Totman of Cookeville, Tennessee, Oliver Totman of Cookeville, Tennessee, and Ziah Benton of Tennessee.

His family was the center of his life, and he took great pride in each generation that followed him. He cherished the time he spent with his loved ones and found joy in their accomplishments, their laughter, and their company. The legacy he leaves behind is reflected in the family he helped build and the many memories they will carry forward.

Bob will be remembered with love for the life he lived, the work he did, and the example he set. His friendly nature, funny spirit, and steadfast presence touched many lives. Though he is no longer here, the impact of his life will remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Visitation will be on Thursday, April 16, 2026 from 10am until 2pm at Anderson Upper Cumberland Funeral Home.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, April 16, 2026 at 2:00pm in the chapel of Anderson Upper Cumberland Funeral Home with Bro. Dow Allen and Bro. Clayton Lee officiating. Burial will follow in Dodson Branch Cemetery.

Anderson Upper Cumberland Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. (931) 268-1550