Verlane Zerby was born to Dale and Dorcas (Wiseman) Shepherd on August 13, 1938 in Stockton, California. Verlane passed to the peace of the Lord on January 16, 2021 in her home of 49 years north of Independence.

Verlane moved to the Independence area with her parents in 1945 where she later attended Independence and Custer Schools. Verlane met the love of her life at 15 years old and thereafter married John Zerby at the Independence Church on September 1, 1957.

John and Verlane initially made their home in Oklahoma City and returned to the Independence area with their family in 1972 where they began their farming interests with the generous love and support of her parents.

Verlane was a devoted member of Bethany Church where she was involved early with the children’s ministry and was the Church pianist for 46 years.

Verlane was a dedicated piano teacher to more than 1,500 students, some of multigenerational family members, for a period of 60 years. Verlane studied piano under the renowed Dr. Clarence Burg, former Dean of the College of Fine Arts, Oklahoma City University.

In 1969, Verlane received her Diploma for completing the prescribed course of study in Piano from the Extension Department of Sherwood Music School, Chicago. Verlane was proud of her Accreditation with the Oklahoma Music Teachers Association which allowed her students over the years to participate in OMTA sponsored competitions throughout Oklahoma.

Verlane directed OMTA District State Achievement Auditions for many years and was presented with the formal recognition as a 50 Year Member on May 29, 2015.

Verlane is survived by her husband, John; her son, Terryl and his wife Heidi of Oklahoma City; her daughter Ginger Waldrip and her husband Mark of Oklahoma City; and five grandchildren, Tyler Waldrip and his wife Emily, Jackson Zerby, Meredith Zerby, Hunter Waldrip and his fiancé Emma, and JT Zerby, all of Oklahoma City.

Verlane was preceded in death by her parents, her young sister Sheila Mae, and brothers Delee Shepherd and Galen Shepherd.

Due to public health concerns, the family has chose to hold a graveside service at the Mound Valley Cemetery in Thomas Okla. on Jan. 20, 2021 at 2: P.M. The formal Service for Verlane will be held at Bethany Church, Thomas Okla. at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established in the name of Verlane Zerby at Bethany Brethren and Christ Church. Donations will go to special projects for the Church she called home for 50 years.