William Floyd Shepherd Jr.

William Floyd Shepherd Jr. was born on November 17, 1933 in Mill City, Oregon to William "Floyd" Shepherd Sr. and Lucy Ellen Bates. He grew up in Mill City and graduated from Mill City High School with the class of 1953. Soon after graduating from high school on August 28, 1954, Bill would marry Wilma Jull who he met through their Church youth Group. This would start 64 years of marriage and the creation of a big family legacy. The two would raise their family in Mill City. Bill found work in the lumber industry, as so many in the area do. He worked at one time as a mill worker but ultimately changed to truck driving in different capacities. Bill’s private life was often very busy. At home he was often gardening but he spent a lot of time reaching out in the community. He was a member of Mill City Christian Church his entire life as well as the North Santiam Historical Society. Bill also served as a Volunteer with Senior Meals as a dishwasher, as well as, for the Mill City Food Pantry. Many remember his generosity as he was always one of the first to respond if someone needed help. Family was very important to Bill and even though he lived a busy life, he made time for family. They would often go camping on the coast or he would involve his family in working around the farm, picking blueberries, hauling hay or feeding his cows. He was very proud of all his children and grandchildren following their lives and interests closely. In 2015, Bill was honored with the title Mill City Independence Day Grand Marshall and by the Mill City Lions Club as Citizen of the year. Bill passed away on December 20, 2018 in Mill City, Oregon. He was preceded in death by his parents William Sr. and Lucy; Sister, Florene and grandson, Mark. He is survived by his loving wife Wilma; Children Leroy (Jean), Jerry and Bonnie; Grandchildren, Matthew (Renee), Michael (Dayann) Jesse, Amanda (Jonathan), Nathan and Great-Grandchildren Josiah and Evangelyn. A graveside service will be held on Thursday December 27th at 10:00 AM at Fairview Cemetery in Gates, Oregon followed by a Memorial Service at Mill City Christian Church at 1:30 PM. Memorial contributions can be made to Wi-Ne-Ma Christian Camp or Mill City Christian Church Building Fund (PO Box 78, Mill City, OR 97360).