Ernie Wesley Shepard

December 5, 1940 - January 23, 2021

Ernie Wesley Shepard, 80, of Leesburg, FL departed from this Earth to go home with the Lord on January 23rd, 2021 in Okahumpka, FL. Ernie was born on December 5, 1940 to James Melvin and Nadine Shepard in Eustis, FL. Ernie was an avid fisherman and a lifelong Florida State fan. He retired from the citrus industry after over 35 years of management at Silver Springs Citrus in Howey, FL. Ernie enjoyed hosting fish fries for his family and friends and was known for making the best hush puppies around. He enjoyed entertaining, dancing and golf. He was a long-standing member and past president of the Lake County Eagles Aerie 4273 as well as a founding member of the Amvets/Sons of Amvets Post 2006. Ernie is reunited with his parents, two brothers; Gerald & Gene Shepard, two daughters; Janet Shepard & Cynthia Carroll and his wife, Shirley Shepard. Ernie leaves behind his sister; Margaret Ann Stokes of Summerfield, FL, his beloved daughter Jenny Shepard Sapp of Okahumpka, FL, three sons; James Houston Shepard of Jacksonville, FL, Darrel J Rockwell of Hague, NY and Jeffrey Hoskins of Clermont, FL. He will also be missed by his many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Flowers may be sent to Page-Theus Funeral Home.