Billy J. Sheppard was born July 21, 1952, in Dale County, Alabama.  He was the son of the late Mary Baxter and William Sheppard.

He received his early childhood and secondary education in the Dale County and Dougherty County School Systems, graduating from Monroe High School.  Throughout school, Billy and took advantage of every opportunity to hone his creative abilities and master technical/mechanical skills.

Billy was a military enthusiast who served his country with distinction in the United States Navy.  During his military career, he was assigned to posts in multiple states and abroad.  He was a seaman to the core and the recipient of numerous awards and commendations as he advanced through the ranks.  At the close of his tours of duty, he received an honorable discharge and returned to civilian life.

Billy's professional career after the military included employment at Firestone, Cooper Tires, and Addison Steel as a mechanic and electrical technician. He approached every challenge with equal measures of enthusiasm and serious focus, whether it was the repair of a small switch or the overhaul of a piece of high-performance equipment. If anything was in need of repair, Billy would fix it!

Family and friends were among his greatest treasurers and he looked forward to spending time with them.  Billy found joy in every circumstance and his magnetic personality drew people to him.  He was a man of many words, many ideas—big and small, and could provide comic relief in any situation.  His kind deeds and compassionate spirit will truly be missed.

On June 3, 2021, Billy transitioned from this earthly life at Pruitt Health Sylvester.  In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Troymela Cobb; and his brother, Bolzie Baxter.

Loving memories will forever be cherished by his children, Marlon Sheppard of Tampa, FL, Xavier (Andrea) Green of Atlanta, GA, and Andrea Sheppard, Andrew J. Dawson, Jawaski Cobb, Sophia Kendrick, William Cobb, and Demarcus Cobb all of Albany, GA; stepdaughter, Nicole Jenkins of Albany, GA; four sisters, Virginia (Randolph) Craig of Atlanta, GA, Deloris Sheppard and Betty (Jessie) Davis both of Albany, GA, and Debra A. Baxter of Philadelphia, PA; twenty-four grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

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