Sheldon Lee Epperly, 83, of Moneta, Virginia, went to his heavenly home on Monday, May 8, 2023. He was a son of the late Frank F. Epperly, Sr. and Macie Marie Turman Epperly. In addition to his parents he is preceded in death by his brother, Frank F. Epperly, Jr. and a half-sister, Sylvia Spangler.

Surviving are his daughters, Jill Epperly Caldwell and Kim Epperly Cawley; sisters, Ann Ferrell (George), Linda Bowles and Gloria Epperly; sister-in-law, Nadine Epperly; grandchildren, Ashleigh Fike (Scott), Britney Cawley, Whitney Cawley, Makenna Caldwell and Blake Caldwell; great-granddaughter, Reagan Fike; and numerous nieces, nephews and special friends.

Shel was a hardworking, patient, kind, caring and strong willed man who would always lend his hand to help others and never expected anything in return. He always had a passion for horses, especially Tennessee Walking Horses, whether he was riding, showing or supporting friends at shows. He faithfully attended the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration for 53 consecutive years, where he made numerous lifelong friends. Even though he kept busy with farming and attending shows, he never missed an opportunity to support his children and grandchildren at various sporting events. He was a member of Saunders Grove Church of the Brethren and sang with the Gospel Messengers for many years.

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to Pine Spur Hunt Club, P.O. Box 152, Vinton, Virginia 24179 or a charity of your choice.

The family will receive friends from 5 to 8 pm, Friday, May 12, 2023 at Lotz Funeral Home, 305 East Washington avenue, Vinton. A graveside service celebrating Sheldon’s life will be held at 11 am, Saturday, May 13, 2023 at Mountain View Cemetery, Vinton with Pastor Glenn Stevens officiating. Online condolences may be found at www.lotzfuneralhomevinton.com.