Oma Shepherd, a beacon of love and faith, peacefully passed away on January 13, 2026, in Berea, KY, surrounded by the warmth of her loving family. Born on July 30, 1942, in Oneida, KY, to the late Cecil and Dealie Baker Burns, Oma lived a life rich with love, commitment, and service, holding dear the Christian values that guided her every
action.
Oma was the cherished sister of Mae Sarver, Ann Wilson, Cecil Burns, and Noah Burns; a sisterly light now missed by her predeceased siblings Winston Burns, Liz Shockey, Ethel Shockey, Winford Lee, Jerry, and Clarence Burns. Her gentle presence will also be remembered by numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members, who all felt the warmth of her embrace.
As a devout Christian, Oma Shepherd's faith was the cornerstone of her existence. She received a Masters in Pastoral Counseling from Andersonville Seminary in Georgia. Her love for Jesus was evident in her every action, every kind word, and the unwavering support she offered to everyone she met. Her faith and love for her family were intertwined beautifully, creating a legacy of love that will endure through generations.
In the year of 1956 Darrell and Oma met at the Oneida Baptist Institute and were married in 1960. They would go on to be married 61 years and raise their two children, Laronda (Tony) Baugh, and Dwayne (Nan) Shepherd.
Devoted and cherished partners in life and business, Oma and her beloved husband Darrell were the heart and soul behind Shepherd's Home Furnishings, where they worked side by side. Their legacy of dedication and community spirit remains a cornerstone of the business landscape they helped to shape.
Their lives were testaments to a deep love for family, whom they nurtured with compassion and joy. Darrell and Oma's spirit will continue to live on through their children and grandchildren, Chad (Beka) Bingham, Brent (Jamie) Shepherd, Blake (Bonnie) Shepherd, and Luke (Cheyenne) Shepherd, and precious great-grandchildren Hope Bingham, Jaxon, Gunner, Ayden, Adyson, Wade, Amelia, and Lainey Shepherd, who will all cherish their memory and love.
Funeral services will be 1 pm, Thursday, January 15, 2026, at Gloryland Baptist Church with her brother Cecil Burns officiating. Visitation will be from 11 am to 1 pm at the church. Burial will be on Friday, January 16, 2026, at Lucy-Angel Cemetery. Lakes Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
