Debbie Shephard

To see the unfolding of Debbie Shephard’s story is to see the hand of God at work in a personal way. Debbie and her two siblings began living with her paternal grandparents when she was 9 years old, and it was through their godly influence that she became a Christian at the age of 11 while attending VBS. Later in her teenage years, she rededicated her life to Christ at a church camp vespers service.

Even though she was extremely shy while growing up, Debbie found that she loved singing when a minister in her church formed a youth choir. In 1977, Debbie enrolled at Campbellsville University in Kentucky where she earned her degree in Music Education. She also was fortunate to attain her MRS degree since she met Dave Shephard while there, and they married in 1982. Debbie and Dave served in ministry in four different churches. Dave's last church was in Gas City, Indiana, and he pastored the First Christian Church for 21 years.

A year after they moved to Gas City, Debbie began working at WGM as the Accounts Payable Associate. Her years at WGM have been challenging at times but also very rewarding. She says that over her years at WGM she's been in at least nine different offices/work locations. She has also gained a family here, getting support and wisdom when she needed it from other team members. The focus on the spiritual wellbeing of others is what Debbie loves about being part of WGM.

One of the favorite parts of her job has been working with missionaries and getting to know many of them. Debbie has always made it her mission to reimburse expense reports, or whatever financial need came up, as quickly as possible. Being in ministry herself, she understands the need to be reimbursed as soon as possible. Knowing all that she knows now, she would tell herself if she were about to begin again, “You are going to be tested and tried, but the blessings are going to be overflowing. This will be your work family, and what a great work family it is!”

In December 2023, after 24 ½ years at WGM, Debbie retired. She has no specific plans after retirement but does plan to enjoy her family and grandchildren. She and Dave have two married daughters, Karis and Christa, who live close by with their families.

One of Debbie's favorite Scripture verses is Isaiah 40:31, “Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint” (NIV). Being acquainted with Debbie's enthusiastic outlook on life, there is no doubt that she will continue to go from strength to strength in retirement, blessing each one she meets.