Cora Williams

Cora Williams (Sheppard), 74, of Whitman, West Virginia, went home peacefully on February 10, 2026, surrounded by the comfort of her own home, resting in her bed— just the way she wanted.

Cora was born at home on April 4, 1951, in Lenore, West Virginia, to Armilda and Leonard Sheppard. She was raised in Logan, West Virginia, where she developed the strong values, honesty, and work ethic that would define her life and guide her family for generations.

Cora was a devoted homemaker, but her work extended far beyond the walls of her home. She poured her heart into caring for her family, opening her doors to anyone who needed a meal, a place to sit, or simply to feel welcome. Her home was always full—of food, laughter, and people-and no one ever left hungry.

She was preceded in death by the two great loves of her life, Charles J Dotson and Andrew Williams, as well as her brother, Grover Sheppard.

She is survived by her children: Willis Sheppard; Charles Dotson Jr. and wife Michelle Dotson; Larry Dale Dotson and wife Jennifer Dotson; and Alena McNeely and husband Larry Scott McNeely.

She leaves behind a legacy carried on through her grandchildren: Kimberly Dotson, Ariel Bartram and husband Shawn Bartram, Shawn Estep, Jordan Sheppard, Michael Estep, Larry Dotson Jr., and Nicholas Dotson.

Her joy was multiplied through her great-grandchildren: Zayne Bartram, Eli Bartram, Miyah Estep, Everleigh Estep, Waylon Bartram, Lucas Scott Estep, and Wrenley Dotson, with three great-grandchildren on the way.

Cora is also survived by her siblings: Lucille Mitchell, Dale Sheppard, and Arlene Sheppard.

Cora was known for being honest and strong in her beliefs, a woman who stood firm in her values and lived them daily. She found her happiness in cooking large meals, tending her garden, cooking out by the swimming pool, and most of all, enjoying a house full of family. Her love was practical, generous, and steady—shown through full plates, open doors, and a heart that made room for everyone.

Her passing was expected and peaceful, a quiet goodbye after a life lived fully and on her own terms. 

Cora's life was one of service, love, and unwavering honesty. Though she will be deeply missed, her spirit lives on in every family gathering, every shared meal, and every tradition she so lovingly created.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Monday, February 16, 2026, at Akers-James Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Highland Memory Gardens at Chapmanville. Visitation will be from 11 a.m. until the time of the service, Monday at the funeral home.

Pallbearers will be family and friends.

Online condolences may be left at www.jamesfh.com

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Akers-James Funeral Home, Logan, WV.