John Ben Shepperd

John Ben Shepperd, a native of Gladewater, began practicing law in Longview soon after graduating from the University of Texas Law School in 1941. After serving in World War II, he gained prominence as national president of the Jaycees. His public service career began in 1946, when he was appointed to fill his father's unexpired term as county commissioner. Governor Allan Shivers appointed him secretary of state in 1950, and he was elected attorney general in 1952 and reelected in 1954. As attorney general, he attacked political corruption in Duval County and the misuse of state veterans land funds. After retiring from public office in 1957, he moved to Odessa, where he practiced law and supported numerous civic and charitable endeavors. He also served on a number of state and national boards and commissions, including the Texas State Historical Survey Committee, and he was the driving force in the growth and development of the Historical Marker Program, which became nationally recognized during his term as chairman. After his retirement, he renovated his Gladewater boyhood home and farm, and he is buried in the family cemetery south of town.

Gladewater, Texas · United States