Mildred Ann Smith Shepler, known to all as Millie, was born on June 11, 1943, in Auburn, NY. She was the daughter of Paul and Mildred (Brennan) Smith. Her parents owned and operated Smith Awning and Tent Co. They supplied the tents for Camp Meeting for many years, as well as several State Fairs and other large events along the East Coast.
She was raised in the Seventh-day Adventist church and attended church school throughout her schooling. She was a graduate of the Class of 1961 from Union Springs Academy. She received college degrees from Atlantic Union College and Hinsdale Sanitarium and Hospital School of Nursing. She worked as a Licensed Practical Nurse in both hospitals and doctors’ offices following the completion of her degree. When working in hospitals, she found working in the Emergency Room, ICU and CCU very rewarding.
Millie married her husband of 56 years, Daniel R. Shepler, on May 23, 1970. They welcomed a daughter, Debra Fay (David) Erpenbeck, and son, Gregory Paul (PollyAnn) Shepler, to their family while living in Michigan. In November 1974, the family moved to the Auburn, NY area to be near Millie’s aging parents and help with their business.
Following the example of her parents, Millie was actively involved in her church and raising her children to know and love Jesus. Millie served in many offices both in the church and on church school boards.
Music was a part of Millie’s upbringing and life. Those who had the opportunity to be blessed by her voice were granted a glimpse into the heavenly choir. She played piano and organ for church, special music, and various events. She encouraged her children to appreciate the gift of music.
Following her work as a nurse, Millie spent over 20 years driving school buses for Union Springs Central School District. She and her husband both retired in June, 2003. They have spent their retirement pursuing their favorite hobbies, spending time with family, and sleeping late. They also moved a few times, each move bringing them closer to where Debbie and Dave live.
Millie was known for her laugh, generous and kind heart, and willingness to serve the Lord. Many people have shared how important Millie was to them and the impact that she made on each life.
Millie was so happy to spend her last birthday with Dan, Debbie, Dave, Greg and PollyAnn. She was so glad that Greg and PollyAnn were able to come and visit her. She was so very proud of her children and their spouses.
On July 13, 2026, following a short battle with renal failure, Millie went to sleep in Jesus, surrounded by her family. While she will be greatly missed, we find peace knowing she no longer suffers and can rest until Jesus comes.
A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, July 26, 2026, at 11:00 am. The service will be held at Bay Knoll SDA Church (2639 East Ridge Road, Rochester, NY 14622). In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Bay Knoll SDA Church School.
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Millie was one of my classmates. She was a special person. We kept in touch through the years. We even went to their home when they lived in Union Springs. Looking forward to Heaven. Hugs to the family!
Wendy Buck
I loved Millie, and loved to hear her sing, “Open the Gates of the Temple” at the Auburn SDA church (now Willard Chapel). She was such a wonderful example to me, and I really appreciated how hard she worked and the dedication she had to church and community. I look forward to seeing her again one day!