Wilma Fae Shepherd

Wilma Fae Shepherd (née Johnson), aged 93, formerly of Katy, Texas, and resident of Arlington, Texas, went to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on July 26, 2024, in Fort Worth, Texas. She and her twin sister were born on September 9, 1930, in Oilton, Oklahoma, to R.O. and Grace Johnson. Wilma was a loving and devoted wife to Paul Wayne “Pete” Shepherd for 52 years before his passing in 2005. She was a cherished member of her family and a beacon of love and faith.

Wilma graduated from New London High School in 1949 and completed her higher education at the University of North Texas in 1953. She dedicated nine years to teaching junior high Physical Education and Texas History, a career that was driven by her passion for education and helping youth. Beyond her professional life, she fully embraced the role of a mother and raising her children.

A devout Christian, Wilma was actively involved in the First Baptist Church of Corpus Christi and later FBC of Katy, Texas. She and Pete shared a firm commitment and dedication to Mexico Missions associated with these two churches, spanning a total of over 30 years of leading groups to share their faith along the Rio Grande. Her faith was a cornerstone of her existence, guiding her actions and outreach, and sustaining her through the many health concerns she experienced throughout her life.

Wilma’s vivacity extended into her personal interests as well. She loved all sports but was an avid basketball fan, particularly of the Houston Rockets, was a fixture on 1st base for her women’s softball team until she was 58 and attended as many of her grandchildren’s athletic events as possible, cheering from the stands with enthusiasm. She enjoyed camping and traveling across North America with Pete in their Airstream, often traveling with her twin sister and brother-in-law. Her home was a hub of warmth, known for her delicious chicken fried steak and the laughter that filled the rooms. Family gatherings were her absolute joy, especially when she could spoil her grandchildren with popcorn, ice cream, and Granddad’s cookies. The last four years brought the joy of new life through her four great-grandchildren.

Wilma is survived by her son, Rev. Gale Wayne “Dub” Shepherd; daughter, Paula Fae Lynn and husband David; grandchildren, Sarah Lynn with Austin Fleming and Seth Lynn with Emily; great-grandchildren Noah and Peter Lynn and twins Poppy and Gus Fleming; along with numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, her parents, siblings Cecil Johnson (Dot), Eithel Hibbs (Bill), Robert Johnson, Darrell Johnson (Margie), twin Wilda Mae Wadle (Johnny), and her in-laws, Paul and Judy Shepherd.

A family graveside gathering to honor Wilma’s life will be held on August 10, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. at Rusk County Memorial Gardens near Henderson, Texas, where she will be laid to rest alongside her husband, parents, in-laws, and siblings and their spouses. The Wade Funeral Home in Arlington, Texas, is assisting the family during this time.
Wilma Shepherd’s legacy of love, devotion, and spirited enthusiasm for life will forever resonate with those who were fortunate to know her.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to Iglesia Bautista El Buen Pastor, 24525 Clay Road, Katy, TX 77493.