Homer Gene Shipley

Homer “Gomer” Gene Shipley, 78, of Universal City, Texas, passed away peacefully on January 4, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer.

A proud Vietnam Veteran, Homer served honorably in the United States Navy for four years and continued serving his country for more than 40 years, retiring from the United States Air Force and Civil Service.

Originally a kid from West Texas, the military led Homer and his loved ones on journeys around the world, but Universal City became the place he called home. Known to many simply as Gomer, he was a friend to everyone he met and a man of quiet strength who believed deeply in doing the right thing. He was not one for many words, but when he spoke, people listened and usually smiled. Homer enjoyed fishing with his wife and sons, bowling, woodworking, cooking, and spending time with his dogs. He lived for his family and above all else loved his girl, often reminding everyone that she was the real boss.

He was preceded in death by his father, Sweet William “Bill” Iles; mother, Pearl Irene Iles; sister and brother-in-law, Novella and Jack Minter; nephews Allan Minter and James Otis Faubion; and brother-in-law Tony Tidwell.

Homer is survived by his devoted wife of 61 years, Marie Shipley; his brother, Melvin Horten; sister, Billie Sue Barnes (Carl); sons, Marcus Shipley (Carmen) and Chris Shipley (Jessica); and grandchildren Brandon, Matthew, and Joseph. He is also survived by extended family members Mike, Maria, and Blain Titus, who held a very special place in his heart. In addition, loving nieces and nephews include Donna Bell, Rita Lightfoot, Billy Minter, Rhonda Horton, Kevin Horton, Joseph Wayne Faubion (officiant of the service), Ramon Tidwell, Matthew Tidwell, Juli Tidwell Rubin, Lorinda Tidwell Kneer, and Debbie Tidwell Harris.

In his final days, Homer was surrounded by compassion and support from many caring individuals. The family would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to his many caregivers. VITAS Healthcare, for the loving care they gave Gomer. Their compassion, humor, and kindness truly brightened his days. Appreciation is also extended to the dedicated nurses and doctors at Brooke Army Medical Center at Fort Sam Houston and Methodist Hospital, whose commitment and care meant so much. These caregivers are truly God’s Earth Angels.

We also want to thank our neighbors and friends for their years of kindness and friendship: Ralph and family, Dottie and Cyrus and family, Dina Delgado, Casandra, and Myka.

Military honors will be rendered at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery on January 21 at 2:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society or organizations supporting Wounded Veterans.