May "Mutt" Lovel Shepard, 93, passed away peacefully on July 18, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. She was born in her family home in Benton, Arkansas, to William Virgil Lovel and Mary Elizabeth Wright Lovel.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, Jesse Donavan Shepard; and her son, Ricky Don Shepard.

Mutt is survived by her loving daughter, Patty Fryar, and her husband, Gary. She is also survived by Patty's children, Aaron Perry and his wife, Karen, and their three children, Carly, Kaci, and Jake; and Brittany Perry and her two children, Evelyn and Elijah Katilius, of North Carolina. She is also survived by Gary's children, Dawson and Sydney Fryar, Ethan Fryar, Abby Fryar, and Aaliyah Milligan of Iowa, along with extended family and many dear friends.

Although her family will miss her deeply, they find comfort in knowing she is at peace and reunited with those who have gone before her.

Visitation will be held Tuesday, July 21, 2026, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Ashby Funeral Home, located at 108 W. Narroway Street in Benton, Arkansas.

A graveside service will be held Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Rosemont Cemetery, located at 1010 Military Road, Benton, Arkansas 72015.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers, medical staff, and hospice team for the compassionate care they provided during Mutt's final days.

Online guest book at www.ashbyfuneralhome.com

"Her children arise and call her blessed." — Proverbs 31:28