Biography: Charles Sheppard Miers, known as Shep, was born in Magnolia, Arkansas to Maxine Goodwin Miers and Carter Conway Miers, who preceded him in death. He is survived by his loving wife, Kaye Phillips Miers, and her daughter Olivia Lea Easterling, and his sons Collier Stephen Miers (Catherine) and John Carter Miers (Savannah), and his beloved grandson Carter Scott Miers. He is also survived by the mother of his sons Jane Forsyth Miers and her daughter Elizabeth Grace Scott.
As an only child, he moved with his family 16 times before returning to graduate from Magnolia High School in 1971. He graduated from Southern Arkansas University with a double major in History and Art. He attended the University of Dallas graduating with an MFA in sculpture. Following graduation, he became the youngest Dean of Students. He loved to say Little Rock is the farthest north he lived.
He worked in wood and laminated wood, painstakingly molding, cutting, melding, smoothing and working with a dedication and love that few possessed. His work in pencil and ink were flawless and his steady hand assured perfection. His work can be found worldwide, in homes and corporate offices, the St. Mark’s pipe organ, and the portable baptismal font at the Cathedral. His art was important to him, and so were the people. He mentored hundreds of students while teaching Advanced Wordworking at the Arkansas Arts Center for over 30 years.
Shep was a long-time Presbyterian and, formerly, an active member at Westover Hills Presbyterian Church. Six years ago, he felt profoundly pulled to Trinity Episcopal Cathedral in downtown Little Rock. Over the years, his faith continued to deepen drawing him into leadership of the Centurion Guild, a Care Team, and as a Co-Sunday School teacher. He had also begun his second year of Education for Ministry, which is a four-year program through Sewanee.
While at Trinity Cathedral, he learned more about the Society of Saint John the Evangelist, a community of Episcopal monks in Boston, MA. This led Shep to pursue a call as a member of the society. He was proud to sign the service registry at the Cathedral: Shep Meirs, Fellow of St. John. This was an outward sign of his deep call to follow Christ at all times and in all places.
A private family service celebrating Shep's life will be at Trinity Episcopal Cathedral. Loved ones will be able to share in the celebration via live stream Friday, November 13, 2020 at 1:00 pm. Click here to join the livestream:https://youtu.be/jW4bcPp9xC8:. He will be interred in the Treadway Garden at Trinity Episcopal Cathedral. The family requests with gratitude that donations in Shep's honor be made to: The Society of Saint John the Evangelist (http://www.ssje.org/donate) or Trinity Episcopal Cathedral (http://www.trinitylittlerock.org).