Meet Jeffrey Charles Tarpley Jr.: Sherri Shepherd’s Brave and Loving Son

Jeffrey Charles Tarpley Jr. may not be a Hollywood star like his mom, Sherri Shepherd, but his story has touched many hearts. Born way too early and given little hope by doctors, Jeffrey proved everyone wrong. He’s not only grown stronger over the years, but he’s also become a symbol of love, faith, and determination.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at who Jeffrey Jr. is. We’ll talk about his early birth, his health battles, his relationship with his mom, and the journey that has made him who he is today. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to raise a child with special needs or how strong a mother’s love can be, keep reading.

Jeffrey Charles Tarpley Jr. Quick Bio

Who Is Jeffrey Charles Tarpley Jr.?

Jeffrey Charles Tarpley Jr. is the son of actress and comedian Sherri Shepherd and her ex-husband Jeff Tarpley. He was born on April 22, 2005, which is also Sherri’s birthday. That alone makes their bond even more special.

Jeffrey is now in his late teens. He has faced many challenges since birth but continues to grow stronger every year. He is often seen smiling beside his mom, and though he is not in the spotlight much, his story has inspired many parents and families around the world.

Jeffrey’s Early Birth and Medical Struggles

Jeffrey Jr. was born extremely early—at just 25 weeks. He weighed only 1 pound and 10 ounces at birth. Doctors didn’t expect him to survive. Some even told Sherri that he might never walk or talk, and that he would likely face many mental and physical challenges.

But Jeffrey had other plans. He spent four long months in the NICU (Newborn Intensive Care Unit), fighting to grow stronger. His mom stayed hopeful, even when things looked scary. Over time, Jeffrey began to surprise everyone, including the doctors. He showed signs of strength that nobody expected.

A Mother’s Faith and a Miracle Baby

Sherri often talks about how her faith helped her during those early days. She remembers doctors saying her baby might never speak or walk. But she believed in something bigger. She believed in miracles.

Years later, when Jeffrey turned 14, Sherri wrote, “Doctors said Jeffrey would be paralyzed… But God said different.” That simple message shows how much faith and love played a role in Jeffrey’s journey. Many moms would have broken down, but Sherri stood strong, and Jeffrey kept growing and learning.

Growing Up with Special Needs

Jeffrey has what many call developmental delays. This means he sometimes needs extra time or help to learn things or do daily tasks. But that has never stopped him from trying his best.

Sherri calls him “perfectly imperfect.” She doesn’t compare him to other kids. Instead, she loves him exactly as he is. Jeffrey went to therapy as a child, often four times a week, to improve his speech, movement, and learning. His mom worked hard to give him everything he needed to grow and shine.

Sherri Shepherd’s Love and Daily Support

Being a single mom and a busy actress isn’t easy, but Sherri has always made her son her top priority. She shares little moments with Jeffrey on her social media, showing the fun, laughter, and love they share.

One touching example? When Jeffrey went to prom in 2023, Sherri shared photos of him in a tux, putting a corsage on his date. She wrote that she cried watching him, realizing how far he had come. Her pride and joy were clear in every word and photo. Moments like these show just how deep their bond is.

Jeffrey Charles Tarpley Jr.’s Funny Leggings Story

In March 2020, Sherri posted a funny video on Instagram. Jeffrey was eating at the kitchen table when he looked at his mom and made a face. “Why are you wearing those leggings?” he asked, clearly not a fan of her outfit.

He then told her, “Moms shouldn’t wear leggings. They’re not meant for moms.” Sherri laughed and told him that leggings were actually made for older women. After a short debate, Jeffrey gave up and said, “Fine, I don’t care anymore.”

The video made people laugh and smile. Some agreed with Jeffrey, others didn’t. But most people loved seeing the real and funny moment between a mother and her son.

Milestones and Achievements

Jeffrey has reached many important steps in life. In June 2020, he graduated from middle school, and Sherri celebrated with a sweet post on Instagram. In early 2023, he went to his senior prom, looking proud and stylish in his black suit and blue bowtie.

Sherri shared how emotional she felt watching him help his date into the car. She said, “I think I did alright.” A month later, she shared another story—at his high school graduation, Jeffrey didn’t mention her in his speech. Instead, he thanked his girlfriend! While that made Sherri laugh and cry, it also showed how much Jeffrey had grown into his own person.

Meet His Parents: Sherri Shepherd and Jeff Tarpley

Jeffrey Charles Tarpley Jr. was born to two entertainers. His mother, Sherri Shepherd, is a well-known comedian, actress, and talk show host. His father, Jeff Tarpley, is also an actor who appeared in several shows and movies.

Sherri and Jeff got married in 2001. They had Jeffrey in 2005, but sadly, their marriage didn’t last. They divorced in 2010. Even though things didn’t work out between them, both parents are part of Jeffrey’s story.

The Divorce and Custody Battle

After the divorce, Sherri became the main parent raising Jeffrey. But in 2014, Jeff Tarpley tried to get full custody of their son. He claimed that Sherri was too busy with her career and wasn’t giving Jeffrey enough attention.

Sherri disagreed and told the court that she was doing everything to care for her son. The judge sided with Sherri, and she kept full custody. Later, she shared that Jeff wasn’t very active in Jeffrey’s life. She wished he would be more present and involved.

Sherri’s Second Marriage and Family Changes

After her first marriage ended, Sherri married Lamar Sally in 2011. They planned to have a child through a surrogate, using Lamar’s sperm and a donor egg. Sadly, their relationship also ended in 2014, while the baby was still on the way.

Sherri and Lamar had a legal battle about child support. Even though Sherri had no biological connection to the baby, she was ordered to pay $4,100 every month to support the child. This was in addition to the money she was already paying to Jeff Tarpley.

These challenges didn’t break her. Instead, she kept focusing on raising Jeffrey Charles Tarpley Jr. with love and care.

How Jeffrey Inspires His Mom Every Day

Sherri often shares how much her son inspires her. When she was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in 2007, she knew she needed to live a healthier life. It was Jeffrey who reminded her to eat better and stay active.

His journey made her stronger too. She says being his mom taught her patience, courage, and faith. Even during hard times, she stayed positive. She wanted to be the best mom she could be, and Jeffrey’s love helped her do that.

Jeffrey Charles Tarpley Jr. Today

Now, in 2025, Jeffrey is around 19 or 20 years old. He’s grown into a smart, kind, and funny young man. He loves sports, especially baseball, and often takes the train in New York with his friends to watch the Mets.

Sherri says it’s not easy letting go, but she knows he needs to find his own way. She once shared a touching story about watching him walk off to the train and how she quietly prayed for him. She knows the world can be tough, but she believes God will always guide him.

Jeffrey may have started life with struggles, but he has come so far. His smile, his heart, and his strength continue to shine.

Sherri Shepherd’s Message to Other Parents

Sherri often speaks to other parents who are raising kids with special needs. Her message is simple: love them as they are. Don’t compare them. Don’t rush them. Just believe in them.

She says it’s okay to ask for help. It’s okay to cry sometimes. But most of all, never give up. Every child grows at their own pace. And every small step is worth celebrating.

Sherri is not just a TV star. She’s a mom who shows the world what real love and real strength look like.

Final Thoughts

The story of Jeffrey Charles Tarpley Jr. is not just about one child. It’s about what love, patience, and belief can do. From a tiny baby born too early to a young man full of dreams, Jeffrey’s life is a reminder that anything is possible.

Sherri Shepherd has stood by his side through it all. With her humor, heart, and strong faith, she has helped him become the brave young man he is today.

For every family going through something hard, this story offers hope. It shows that with care, support, and a little faith, children like Jeffrey can do amazing things.

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