Ermal Jean Shepard

Graveside services for Ermal Jean Shepard, 85, of Lawrence, will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, July 29, 2022, at Oak Hill Cemetery. Funeral procession will begin at 10:30 am from Warren-McElwain Mortuary in Lawrence. Ermal passed away on Saturday, July 23, 2022, at North Care Hospice House in N. Kansas City, MO.

Ermal was born on July 4, 1937, in Merriam, KS, the daughter of Howard Montgomery and Ruth Isabell (James) Estelle.

She married Donald Shepard on October 18, 1957, in Lawrence, KS. He preceded her in death.
Survivors include her children, Julie D. Lane, Charles E. Shepard (Lissa), siblings, Karlene (Curtis) Moore, Norman “Tony” (Jessie) Estelle, Loretta Carraher, Lynn Estelle, grandchildren, Jessica Y. Colon, Catherine Shepard, Jolie Shepard, Caleb Shepard, Colin Shepard, great-grandson, Jordan A. Colon, brother-in laws, Steven C. (Ruth) Shepard, William H. (Alecenia) Shepard, and sister-in laws, Cleo J. (Greg) Jackson, and Mary Shepard.

Ermal was preceded in death by her siblings, Howard M. Estelle Jr., Everett Estelle,
Kenneth Estelle, Beverly M. King, grandson, Enrique A. Colon III, brother-in law, James R.
Shepard, son-in-law, Gilbert H. Lane, Jr.

Ermal Shepard retired from Bard Biomedical, where she spent her professional career. In her personal time, Ermal’s love was her family, church and cooking. She spent years as a member of the church choir and a Sunday school teacher. Ermal later served as a stewardess of the church.

Memorial contributions may be made in Ermal’s name to St. Luke AME Church and may be sent
in care of Warren-McElwain Mortuary, 120 W. 13th Street, Lawrence, KS 66044.

13 Condolences

  1. Bob & Patsy Moody on July 26, 2022 at 9:48 am

    Dear Ermal’s family,
    We are so saddened to read of Ermal’s death. Her quiet and soft manner was indicative of her caring and concern for others. She always greeted us with a smile and that smile would make all things right.
    We believe that a person continues to live on through those they have touched in their lifetime. Ermal touched so many in such a positive way that she will be long remembered and missed. We share your loss.
    Bob & Patsy Moody



  2. Kimberly Varner on July 26, 2022 at 2:46 pm

    Julie, the Varner family sends our most sincere condolences upon the loss of your mother. Mrs. Shepard was a wonderful woman. She had a great sense of humor and I thoroughly enjoyed her company. She will be missed. I take comfort I knowing she is with the Lord. We love you and are keeping you and the family in our prayers.



  3. Gary Lee Wheeler on July 26, 2022 at 4:59 pm

    One great lovely lady you will be missed, I worked with Ermal at Davol, my prayers are with you.



  4. Glenn and Jane Climer on July 26, 2022 at 5:16 pm

    Glenn and I both worked with Ermal for many years at Davol. She would make me a coconut pie for my birthday and banana nut bread for my daughter. We will miss her gentle and soft voice. Our prayers are with you all.



  5. Bobbi Baker on July 26, 2022 at 7:08 pm

    Julie,
    My heart cries for you and your family. Many have gone before her to help prepare her eternal home of love.
    I know you take comfort in knowing that she has arrived at home into the loving arms of the Lord. She is Joyful.
    Bobbi & Gil



  6. Mary C Moore on July 27, 2022 at 8:30 am

    Julie and Lynn,
    I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your mother and sister. I know that she will be missed by many in her family, and the many people that she touched. Prayers be with you all.



  7. Luanne Hess on July 27, 2022 at 10:20 am

    I just loved working with Don And Ermal at school bus company..They were the best. Ermal was such a wonderful person I loved talking to her. .Prayers of peace and comfort for the family.



  8. Mary Robinson ( Checkers ) on July 28, 2022 at 7:12 am

    Dear Julie,I am so sorry for your loss and my prayers are with you and your family. Your mother was one of the sweetest women i ever met in my life and she will be missed by a lot of people I wish I could have seen her one last time. She’s with our Lord and back at your Dad’s side take comfort in that and stay strong



  9. Lijia Lyles on July 28, 2022 at 11:56 am

    Julie,

    My condolences to you and your family. My her life be a blessing.



  10. Weegee Green on July 28, 2022 at 1:45 pm

    Julie sorry for your loss. Your mother was a nice lady. Wk across the street from her. My she rest in peace. Weegee.



  11. Leo Souders on July 28, 2022 at 6:40 pm

    Julie, Chuck and Family,

    I was saddened to hear of the passing of your Mom. She was a beautiful, nurturing and caring person. She and your Dad were inseparable in life. May GOD Bless all of you during this difficult time. May HE replace the sorrow with great heartfelt memories!



  12. Craig Byers on July 29, 2022 at 11:33 am

    The Harvey Family extend our condolences and prayers to the family and friends.



  13. Deborah and Karis Lane on July 29, 2022 at 12:26 pm

    Julie , Karis and I send our heartfelt condolences to you and family for the loss of your mom. Mrs. Shepard was always a joy to be around, and so sweet. She will truly be missed. We love you all and will continue to keep you all lifted up in prayer.



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