Bessie Jane Chumbley Shepherd, of Russell Springs, passed away Thursday, January 11, 2024, at her home surrounded by her loving family. She was 91 years of age.
Born March 5, 1932, in Adair County, she was a daughter of the late Haydon and Betty Robertson Harmon. Bessie was a member of Faith General Baptist Church. She always loved being able to grow a large vegetable garden. She enjoyed canning her harvest and cooking wonderful meals for her family. Bessie was also an avid fan of “Wheel of Fortune.”
Survivors include four daughters, Marie Litton, of Jamestown, Brenda Wilson, of Russell Springs, Judy (and Bruce) Johnson, of Russell Springs, and Vivian Burton (and Steve Kimbler), of Columbia; seven grandchildren; and twelve great-grandchildren.
In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her first husband, Albert Chumbley, and her second husband, J.T. Shepherd; two sons, William Chumbley and Johnny Chumbley; four brothers; five sisters; and a great- granddaughter, Taylor Grider.
Funeral services are 2:00 PM Sunday, January 14, 2024, at Bernard Funeral Home, with Brother Jerry Smith officiating. Burial will follow in Bethlehem Cemetery.
Visitation is from 5:00 to 8:00 PM Saturday, January 13, at the funeral home. Visitation will resume at 8:00 AM on Sunday, up until the time of services.
Michael Burton, Marie Litton, Jalen Johnston, Bruce Johnson, Zachary Litton, and Logan Grider will serve as Bessie’s pallbearers.
The family suggests donations in Bessie’s memory to the Alzheimer’s Association of Greater Kentucky, Kaden Tower, 6100 Dutchmans Lane, Suite 401, Louisville, KY 40205. Donations can also be left at the funeral home.
Funeral arrangements for Bessie Jane Shepherd are entrusted to Bernard Funeral Home. An online guestbook is available at www.bernardfuneralhome.com.
