Raymond Edward Shepherd

Raymond “Johnny” Edward Shepherd, 62, of Columbus, Georgia, passed away at his home on July 30, 2026. Born in Fairbanks, Alaska on March 27, 1964—during the Great Alaskan Earthquake, which he playfully referred to throughout his life as “The Big One”—he was a beloved son of SGM Jerry Alton Shepherd and Sarah Frances Shepherd. He attended Hardaway High School and went on to dedicate 21 years of faithful service to the Columbus Consolidated Government before his retirement.

Johnny is survived by his children, Terran Nichols and Nathan May; his grandchildren, Dash Nichols and Rylee Nichols; his siblings, Liz Wessels, Bobby Shepherd, and Gary Shepherd his long time girlfriend Susan Stanfill , along with many nieces and nephews, extended family, and dear friends. Always the life of the party, Johnny delighted in any opportunity to impart a joke or an eclectic word of advice in equal measure. An amateur fire-breather and professional Texas A&M supporter, he never shied away from making his presence known; his absence is ever poignant in the hearts of those who knew him best.

A visitation will be held on August 8, 2026, at 10:00 A.M at Striffler-Hamby, located at 4071 Macon Rd, Columbus, Georgia 31907, with a memorial service to follow at 11:00 a.m.

You will never be forgotten and forever loved. Go Aggies, now and ever more.