Chandler Shepherd

Chandler Shepherd, a devoted family man and talented craftsman, passed away on May 9, 2026, at his home in Silver Lake, Indiana. Born on January 26, 1936, in Gunlock, Kentucky, to Harlan and Kate (Neeley) Shepherd, Chandler’s life was marked by dedication—to his work, his loved ones, and his passions.

Chandler’s journey took him from the rolling hills of Kentucky to the community he embraced around Christmas 1955, when he moved to seek work and a new life. For twenty-seven years, he was a woodworker at Endicott Church Furniture in Warsaw, where his craftsmanship became a testament to his careful attention to detail and respect for tradition. Following the closing of the furniture company, Chandler continued his career at Daylight Screen until he retired, ending a long and fruitful working life.

Throughout his years, Chandler's character shone through in many roles he fulfilled—with care, patience, and commitment. He married Frances M. Harmeson, and together they shared three children. Although their marriage did not last as planned, their bond as parents remained central to his life. Chandler later found enduring companionship with Frances Mae (Hensley) Prater, to whom he was married for eighteen years before her passing. Love found its way to him again, and on January 11, 2015, Chandler married Ilant (Howard) Garris, with whom he shared his later years.

Chandler was a man of varied interests and talents. In his youth, he cherished his time at the Izaak Walton League, engaging in shooting sports that reflected his calm precision and love of the outdoors. His commitment to hunting was yet another facet of his avid appreciation for outdoor life. Chandler’s green thumb blossomed in his garden, and his dedication to creating birdhouses revealed a gentle regard for nature. Perhaps most poignantly, Chandler kept bees, tending them with care and selling their honey.

Music was a lifelong passion for Chandler. A gifted guitarist, he graced numerous bands with his presence over the years, delighting many with his heartfelt playing. He also performed for residents at Grace Village, offering comfort and joy through his melodies.

Chandler’s spiritual journey began with his baptism at the First Free Will Baptist Church of Kosciusko County. In his later years, he attended the Free United Baptist Church in Pierceton.

The loving memory of Chandler Shepherd will be forever cherished by his wife, Ilant Shepherd, Silver Lake; children, Ty (Ed) Kipker, Warsaw, Tina (Kevin) Clapp, North Manchester, and Terry (Angie Brubaker) Shepherd, North Manchester; step-children, Sam (Sarah) Prater, Warsaw and Angie (Jeff) Dwyer, Silver Lake; brother, Delmer (Lois) Shepherd, Gunlock, Kentucky; sisters, Charity Shepherd, Gunlock, Kentucky, Melvia Shepherd, Hueysville, Kentucky, and Bobbie (Bob) Boyd, Cincinnati, Ohio; ten grandchildren; several great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren. Chandler was preceded in death by his parents; second wife, Frances Shepherd; brothers, Jay, Glenn, and Farley Shepherd; sisters, Fredia Alton, and Rose Whitaker; step-children, Jerry and Tim Garris.

Family and friends may call Wednesday, May 13, 2026 from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at McKee Mortuary, 1401 State Road 114 West, North Manchester, Indiana.

Visitation will be held at Hall Funeral Home in Martin, Kentucky on Friday, May 15, 2026 from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. Funeral services will be held Saturday, May 16, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. with calling beginning at 10:00 a.m. at Brushy Fork Missionary Baptist Church in Gunlock, Kentucky, with Pastor Doug Wireman officiating. Burial will be held at Kate Shepherd Cemetery in Gunlock Kentucky.

The family of Chandler Shepherd has entrusted McKee Mortuary and Hall Funeral Home with care and final arrangements.