Columbus, GA- Cornelius Benjamin Sheppard, Sr. (aka Cornelius Obed Sheppard, Sr.), passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, June 8, 2018.

He was the husband of Dorothy (Thompson) Sheppard for 74 years. He was born on September 2, 1919 in Evergreen, Conecuh County, AL to the union of Andrew Johnson Sheppard, Sr. and Pearlie Nettles-Sheppard. He was the 2nd youngest of 11 children.

An avid reader and excellent student, he enjoyed growing up on his family farm in Evergreen, until he joined the United States Army. During his service he served in several wars including World War II, the Korean War and two tours in Vietnam. He was Honorably Retired from the US Army as Master Sergeant (E8) on August 31, 1974.

Left to cherish his memories is: his beloved wife of 74 years, Dorothy Sheppard; 1 daughter and 3 sons, Clara Reid of Tuscan, AZ, Cornelius Sheppard, Jr. of Columbus, GA, Andrew Sheppard (Melinda) of Tuskegee, AL, and Roderick Sheppard, Sr. (Georgianna) of Washington D.C.; 12 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, June 14, 2018 at 11 AM at Fourth Street Baptist Church at 222 W 5th Street, Columbus, GA.

The interment will follow at Fort Mitchell National Cemetery, 553 AL-165, Fort Mitchell, AL.

Visitation is today, 2 til 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

The Staff of Progressive Funeral Home is honored to support the family with End of Life Services.