Mr. William Thomas “Willie” Shepherd, 51, of Somerset, formerly of Barbourville, passed away Saturday morning, December 6, 2025 at the UK Good Samaritan Hospital in Lexington.  He was the son of Johnny Rice Jr. and the late Marlene Shepherd Rice.

Willie was self-employed and a member of the Victory Christian Fellowship.  He enjoyed eating good food, watching television, going to the lake and was known to be a thrill seeker.  He most cherished time with his children and grandchildren.

In addition to his mother, he was preceded in death by grandparents, Johnny Rice Sr., Evan “Pap” and Lillie Shepherd.

Survivors include his loving wife, Chasidy Shepherd of Somerset; father, Johnny Rice Jr.; children, Kaitlyn Messer and fiancé, Travis Bargo of Somerset and Codey Hutton of Gray; a sister, Marsha Rice and wife, Evelyn, of Barbourville; brothers, Gary Rice and wife, Sue-anne, John Rice and Randy Rice all of Barbourville; grandchildren, Blake Davidson, Landon Messer, Kolby Davidson, Aleigh Hutton, Allayiah Storms and Aspynn Bargo; great grandson, Weston Davidson; among other loved ones and dear friends.

No services are planned.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Knox Funeral Home.

Send a condolence to the family of  WILLIAM THOMAS SHEPHERD.

For questions about our obituaries or condolence service, please contact us. You may reach us via e-mail at knoxfuneralhome@barbourville.com. Reach us via phone by calling 606-546-2222.