Carolyn Shepherd

Carolyn Shepherd, 79, of Smilax, Kentucky, passed away on March 10, 2026, in Wooton, Kentucky. Born on April 26, 1946, to Emry and Cindy Burns Hacker, she grew up with a deep appreciation for home and family that would define her life.

Carolyn took great pride in her yard and garden, where her nurturing spirit found joyful expression. She loved tending her plants and then preparing the harvest for her family, always cooking with care and ensuring everyone left her table with a full belly. For more than 17 years, she served as a school bus driver for the Leslie County Board of Education, retiring only a few years ago after dedicating herself to the safety and well-being of local children.

Above all, Carolyn was a loving and devoted wife, mother, granny, sister, neighbor, and friend. She is survived by her daughter, Sheila Boggs (Toby) of Smilax; her son, Scotty Shepherd (Sheila Trent) of Smilax; her brother, Marvin Hacker of Oneida; her sisters, Juanita Smith of Indianapolis, Fannie Mae Stewart of Oneida, and Martha Hensley of Scottsburg, Indiana; four cherished grandchildren, Devin Shepherd (Deanna), Jamie Boggs, Jordon Boggs (Leanna), and Cameron Napier; and six great-grandchildren, Reece, Brantley, Bryleigh, Bentley, Carter, Kiley, and one on the way.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Jimmie Shepherd; her parents; three brothers, Frank Hacker, Raymond “Hack” Hacker, and Valgene Hacker; and one sister, Violet Frost.