William “Bill” Earl Shepherd, a cherished member of the Independence community, passed away peacefully on July 29, 2026, at Eagle Estates in Independence, Kansas. He was 99 years old. In accordance with Bill's wishes, cremation has taken place under the direction of Webb & Rodrick Funeral Home and Crematory.

Bill was born on July 13, 1927, to H.W. and Bess (Caldwell) Shepherd in Fayetteville, Arkansas. He married the love of his life, Velda "Joan" Shepherd, on June 3, 1950, in Fayetteville, Arkansas. Together, they embarked on a remarkable journey, building a life filled with love, laughter, and hard work. The couple owned and operated several businesses, including a skating rink, a paint store, and ultimately Shepherd's Truck and Tractor, where they spent countless hours side by side, nurturing both their business and their bond.

With a spirit nourished by camaraderie and a passion for life, Bill enjoyed traveling, fishing, and spending joyful moments at their lake house. A proud veteran of the Navy, he served his country with honor and dedication. Bill was also a member of the First United Methodist Church in Independence.

Bill is preceded in death by his beloved wife Joan, his parents, H.W. and Bess Shepherd, his son, Larry Shepherd, Punta Gorda, Florida, his brother, Cecil Shepherd, California, his sister’s, Kathryn DeMoss, Kansas City, Missouri, Betty Bower, Chanute, Kansas, and Helen Schmoker, Grand Junction, Colorado.

He leaves behind a legacy of love and laughter, cherished by those who survive him: his sons, Randy (Sherri) Shepherd and Brian (Judy) Shepherd, both of Independence, Kansas; five grandchildren, Kevin (Jordan) Shepherd, Independence, Kansas, Scott (Abby) Shepherd, Kansas City, Missouri, Dustin Shepherd and partner Veronica Soria, Cascade, Iowa, Lauren Shepherd, Leicester, North Coralina, and Andy (Ariana) Shepherd, Independence, Kansas; as well as seven great-grandchildren, Reace, Jaxon, and Kinley Shepherd, Independence, Kansas, Hudson and Liam Shepherd, Kansas City, Missouri, and Savannah and Hunter Shepherd, Independence, Kansas.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, August 8, at 3:00 p.m. at the VFW, 113 E. Myrtle St., Independence, KS 67301. Military Honors will follow at 4:00 p.m. at the same location.Memorial contributions may be made to Harry Hynes Hospice or the VFW in Independence, Kansas, organizations that held meaning in his heart.