Steven Ray Shepherd

Steven Ray Shepherd, 81, of Jackson, Missouri went home to be with Jesus, Sunday, August 30th. He was born December 9th, 1944, to the late G. Leo and Juanita E. (McAda) Shepherd in Joplin, Missouri.

On August 30th, 1999, Steve married his beloved wife, S. Elaine (Lyerla) Shepherd. Together, they shared a beautiful twenty-seven years together.

As a minister, Steve dedicated his life to the Lord’s work by sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ. In his earlier years, he began his ministry when he was ordained in Carthage, Missouri. He was a minister for over sixty years and he loved to tell people about Jesus. He loved bass fishing and spending quality time with his family, especially his grandchildren. He loved people and he wasn’t a stranger to anyone. He was known to be an avid distance runner and was an Olympic weightlifter in his younger years.

His loving survivors include his wife, Elaine Shepherd; a daughter, Holly (Chris) Santasiere; a son, Shane (Heather) Shepherd; a brother, Larry (Sharon) Shepherd; a twin sister, Sharon Hughlett; grandchildren, Hope, Caleb, Hayden, Sophia, and Leo; great grandchildren, Blaire, and Briar; three nephews and a niece.

He was preceded in death by his parents, G. Leo and Juanita E. Shepherd.

To honor Steve’s life, a memorial visitation and service will be held on Saturday, September 5th, 2026, at Mount Auburn Christian Church in Cape Girardeau, Missouri. Public visitation will begin at 10:00 am until 11:00 am. Service to conduct at 11:00 am.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested any donations be made to Ozark Christian College at https://occ.edu/giving or mailed to

1111 N. Main St., Joplin, MO 64801.