Norma Shepherd Retires After a Lifetime of Service to Children’s Ministry

Norma Shepherd

A Heart for Children from the Start

Norma Shepherd of Guthrie, Oklahoma, has recently retired from the Oklahoma Conference’s Children’s Ministry Department after 10 years of dedicated service.

Originally from Fresno, California, Norma began her ministry journey at just 14 years old by helping with a local Vacation Bible School (VBS). Her passion for working with children led her to earn a degree in Early Childhood Education.

“I have always felt that if you capture a child’s heart and help them build a relationship with Jesus, they’re less likely to depart from Him when they grow up,” Norma shared with a smile as she reflected on her calling.

A Missionary Adventure in Africa

Norma and her husband, Rex, embraced mission service early in their marriage. “We had been married only six months when we had the opportunity to go to Lesotho, Africa, as ‘special services’ workers at Maluti Adventist Hospital for one year,” she recalled. “Before we left, we secured the full three-year Bible Story felt set, which illustrated all the Sabbath School lessons. We even took scissors on the 18-hour flight—this was long before 9/11 when pointy objects were allowed on board—and invited fellow passengers to help us cut out the felts. People were so curious about what we were doing! It turned into a wonderful witnessing opportunity.”

At Maluti Adventist Hospital, Norma assisted with non-clinical work, helped Rex manage the farm, kept hospital statistics, and even developed X-rays. But what she loved most was leading branch Sabbath Schools. During their time in Africa, their son, Patrick Michael, was born, and they also cared for an infant orphan girl until she could be placed in a permanent home.

Norma’s Focus and Insights

“Showing kids Jesus’ love is more important than focusing on rules and traditions,” Norma explained. “Once they know who Jesus is and what He values, living the life He calls us to becomes easier because they have a real relationship with Him.”

Although Norma is retiring from conference-wide responsibilities, her passion for children’s ministry remains strong. “I’ve always taught Sabbath School—that’s where my heart is,” she said. “I will continue teaching Primary Sabbath School and VBS at the Edmond Seventh-day Adventist Church until Jesus comes back or retires me locally.”

Norma's Impact and Service Recognized

"I am deeply grateful for the service of Norma Shepherd here in our Conference, said Daniel Ortega, president of the Oklahoma Conference. "Her dedication to the families and children of Oklahoma was marked by kindness, gentleness, and an unfailingly positive attitude. She left a lasting impression on countless young hearts, serving as a loving, tender grandmother to many. I was truly blessed to have had the opportunity to serve alongside her and witness firsthand the compassion and commitment she poured into every child she touched. Her legacy will continue to inspire us for years to come."

Written by Todd Gessele, Assistant Communication Director for the Oklahoma Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.