Willie Frank “Bubba” Sheppard, 86, of Louisville, Kentucky, passed away peacefully on April 28, 2026.

Born on August 27, 1939, in Greenville, Willie was the son of the late M.C. and Edith (Jones) Sheppard. Known affectionately to family and friends as “Bubba,” he was a father, grandfather, brother, and friend whose warm spirit and love for people left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

Willie was a true jokester with a charismatic personality that could light up any room. His smile was contagious to all around him. He never met a stranger and had a natural gift for making people feel welcomed and appreciated. Known by many as quite the ladies’ man, Bubba carried himself with confidence, charm, and style throughout his life. Even as he aged, he moved with grace and continued to bring laughter and joy to those around him. You could see this reflected in his eyes. Always strong and never a quitter, he always kept on keeping on.

He enjoyed life’s simple pleasures, especially spending time fishing and cheering on the University of Louisville basketball team. Whether casting a line or watching the Cardinals play, he found happiness in the moments shared with family and friends.

He leaves to cherish his memory his children, Terri Sheppard, Rhonda Hawk (Darryl), Brian Alexander (Michelle Carter), Jeff Sheppard (Autumn), and Latonda Burnette; his sisters, Ruth Robinson and Mary Davis; along with many beloved grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family members, and friends.

Willie was preceded in death by his parents, M.C. and Edith Sheppard, his children, Tony Sheppard, and Karen Stevenson; and his brother-in-law, Charlie Davis.

Visitation will be held on Friday, May 15, 2026, from 10:00 AM until 12:30 PM at Legacy Funeral Center - Schoppenhorst Chapel at 1832 West Market Street, Louisville, Kentucky  40203. A Funeral Service will follow at the Funeral Home at 12:30 PM with burial to follow at Green Meadows Cemetery at 3800 Shanks Lane, Louisville, Kentucky  40216

Willie’s kindness, humor, and love for his family will be deeply missed, forever remembered and his enduring strength of spirit will be an inspiration for all to follow.