Earl Shepard, Jr.

On September 11, 2023, Earl Gordon Shepard, Jr. passed away at the age of 80.

Earl was born on August 6, 1943 in Daytona Beach, FL to Earl and Margaret Shepard. After graduating high school, he joined the United States Marine Corps where he was first assigned to Camp Lejeune and then served overseas in Japan. During his time in the military, he became an expert in combat and demolition tactics. He honorably served his country, completing four years of service.

After returning to civilian life, Earl settled down in Florida where he sought out his next career, still serving others, employed by Florida Power and Light. As demonstrated in the military, he was no stranger to hard work. Starting at the bottom, he worked his way through the ranks, spending long days, late nights and many hours away from home. He finally retired, after serving the communities of Miami, Stuart and Palm City for 44 years of dedicated service, allowing him to enjoy more time with his family.

Earl enjoyed traveling, gardening, and being outdoors. He had a very generous heart and was always willing to lend a hand. He engaged people with ease and always made others feel welcome. He cherished being active and lived life to the fullest.

He is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Donna and three children; Melissa (Mike) Rothwell, Chris (Allison) Shepard, and Kelli Shepard. He was a devoted "Papa" to his four grandchildren; Kylie, Collin, Zoey, and Cooper. He has three brothers; Ron Shepard, Bobby Albury and Jamey Shepard, two sisters; Kandy Mummert and Elaine Antonacci and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews. He dedicated his life to his family and spent the last 27 years helping to care for his daughter Kelli, who suffered a traumatic brain injury in a motor vehicle accident.

He was preceded in death by his sisters, Diann Bartlett and Earlene Pierce.

Earl will especially be remembered for his loving spirit, generous heart and unwavering devotion to his family.

He will be missed greatly by the many who loved him.

A prayer service will be held on September 21st from 5-7pm at Forest Hills Funeral Home in Palm City and the memorial service, September 22nd at 10am at Holy Redeemer Catholic Church, Palm City.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, www.stjude.org.