Thelma M. Shepherd

Thelma M. Shepherd, Age 91, of Dayton passed away on August 19th, 2025.

She was born on Christmas Day in 1933 to the late Jessie Stevenson and Emma Myrtle Burton.

In addition to her parents Jessie and “Myrtie,” Thelma was preceded in death by her husband Eddie Shepherd, first husband James Lay, grandson Charlie Brewer, and daughter in law Mona Brown Lay. Thelma is also preceded in death by ten of eleven siblings.

Thelma is survived by many loving family members and friends, including Sister: “Ike” Ilene Stevenson, Son: Danny Lay, Daughters: Debbie (Tony) Gambrell, Donna (David) Karlsberger, Grand Children: Shauna (Russell) Clements, Heather (Scott) Landers, D.J. Lay, David Karlsberger, Jessie Karlsberger (Stephanie). Great Grand Children: Taylor (Kaleb) Hibbs, William Wening, Anthony (Bethaney) Landers, Kaleigh (Travis) Mackey, Hailey Day (Ryan), Mia Landers, Max Lancaster. Great Great Grand Children: Frankee Hibbs, Paislee Flanery, Parker Flanery, Hazel Landers. Thelma was blessed with having long time friend Fanny Brown and many wonderful nieces and nephews.

Thelma was a wonderful cook including specialties like her wonderful Vegetable Soup, Cornbread, and always Spareribs and Sauerkraut for New Years. Thelma was known for waving a pointed finger your way when making a point. You were never afraid of the pointed finger but wise to always respect it!

Thelma dedicated her life to loving and caring for her family. She had a remarkable gift—a sixth sense for knowing when something was wrong—and was always there to offer help and comfort, often without being asked. Her presence was a source of strength and warmth, and she was deeply loved. She will be missed dearly.

We have all been so blessed to know her and share some of her ninety-one beautiful years with her. She cherished family dinners and made Christmas truly magical for everyone. Though Christmas was her birthday, she always focused on the joy of the season and the happiness of her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. She loved music and singing, gardening, and spending time with others. She also enjoyed playing—and winning—her fair share of the lottery.

For the past eight and a half years, Thelma made her home at Stoney Ridge Senior Living, where she was blessed with several angels—her long-time, loving caregivers. Words cannot express our gratitude for their kindness and devotion. While at Stoney Ridge, she mastered the art of BINGO and spent many joyful Friday afternoons enjoying singing, and toe tapping to live music. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Affinity Hospice, especially Jill, Jon, and Lisa, for their compassionate care and support.

Thelma’s family invites friends to gather at Routsong Funeral Home in Kettering (2100 E. Stroop Road) on Tuesday, August 26, to share memories and express condolences from noon until 1:00pm. A funeral service will be held at 1:00pm at the same location, with burial to follow at Mt. Zion Park Cemetery in Beavercreek (27 S Fairfield Road).