Edith (Bridwell) Shepherd

Edith Shepherd, 89, passed peacefully in the early morning of Saturday the 27th of December. 

She was born on September 3rd, 1936, to Barney and Elvira Bridwell. She worked at Thomas and Betts for 27 years until her retirement and was a faithful member of Athens Christian Church for nearly 50 years.

Edith was a devoted sister, aunt, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. She was a bonus mamaw to many whom she loved like they were her own. She was a bright light to all and showed love to everyone she met. She loved any time spent with family and friends whether doing crafts, being outdoors (collecting rocks), or doing puzzles. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

Proceeded in death by:

Billy Swafford (First love and father to her children)

Luie Shepherd (second love and the grandfather to her grandchildren)

Roy Allen Swafford (son)

Minnie May Thomas (sister)

Norman Ray Bridwell “Jack” (brother)

Courtney “Leannn” Daniel (granddaughter)

Survived by:

Sisters:

Irene Dennis

Opal Bright

June Jenkins

Bertie Edwards (Jerry)

Patricia Melton (Donnie)

Linda Bridwell (sister-in-law) (Jack)

Brother:

Barney Bredwell (Marie)

Children:

Rusty Swafford (Audrey)

Annette Daniel (Tim)

John Swafford (Nancy)

Many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews

Services will be held at Ziegler’s Funeral Home in Athens on Friday, January 2, 2026. Public visitation will be 11am - 1pm. Services will start at 1pm

Services led by Pastor Rich White

Also speaking Bro. Rusty Swafford and Bro. Linwood Smith

Graveside services will be at McMinn Memorial Gardens at 2pm

If you are unable to attend the visitation or funeral service, please sign the online registry at: www.zieglerfuneralhome.com

Ziegler Funeral Home has been entrusted with serving the family of Edith Shepherd.