Brian Dean Shepherd

Brian Dean Shepherd, 61, passed away on February 17, 2026. He was born on December 8, 1964, in El Dorado, Kansas, to Bruce Dale Shepherd II and Vicki Gámez.

Brian was a proud lifelong member of the El Dorado community. He graduated from El Dorado High School with the class of 1983 before continuing his education at Friends University. There, he earned his bachelor's degree in organizational behavior, history and political science, as well as his teaching degree-laying the foundation for a life devoted to service, leadership, and education.

On December 28, 1985, Brian married the love of his life, Gail (Higgins) Shepherd. This past December, they celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary-a milestone that reflected their deep love, partnership, and unwavering commitment to one another. Together, they built a life centered on faith, family, and community.

Brian dedicated much of his professional life to serving others. He was a high school special education teacher who made a lasting difference in the lives of countless students through his patience, encouragement, and steady belief in their potential. In addition to his work in education, Brian was a licensed real estate broker and appraiser, known for his integrity and strong work ethic.

His commitment to El Dorado extended into civic leadership. He served as City Commissioner from 2003 to 2007 and as Mayor from 2007 to 2009. Brian approached public service with humility and determination, always striving to strengthen the community he loved.

Outside of his professional and civic life, Brian found great joy in the simple pleasures. He loved fishing, wrestling, and following sports of all kinds. He was remarkably artistic and creative, and he cherished time spent with his nieces and nephews. Above all, Brian treasured moments with family, whether gathered for celebrations, holidays, or quiet evenings together.

Brian will be remembered for his servant's heart, steady leadership, artistic spirit, and deep devotion to his family. His legacy lives on in the students he mentored, the community he helped guide, and the family he loved so dearly.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Gail Shepherd, of El Dorado; his son, Adam Wayne Shepherd, of El Dorado; his mother, Vicki Shepherd, of El Dorado; his sister, Sandra Jean Kennedy, of Kansas City; his nieces and nephews, Derek Kennedy, Jennifer Shepherd, Kelsey Turner, Austin Butell (Kaitlyn), Derrick Higgins, Chandler Higgins, Lorrie Butell (Shawn Weathers), Lonnie Higgins, Amy Higgins, Aaron Butell (Hannah Von Hagel), Taylar King, Brittney Kennedy, Brian Erwin, Cierra Kennedy; great nieces and nephews, Chavelle Turner, Athena Turner, Harrison Turner, Kaden Kennedy, Haylee Kennedy.

Brian was preceded in passing by his father, Bruce Shepherd, Sr., his brother, Bruce Dale Shepherd, Jr., his great nephew, Jaxon Kennedy, his brother-in-law, David Butell, his father-figure, Wayne Willett.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, February 21st, 2026, at 10:00 AM at Carlson Funeral Home. Brian will be laid to rest at Sunset Lawns Cemetery immediately following the service.

Please sign his online guest book and leave a memory at www.carlsonkirbymorris.com