Michael Allen Shepard

Michael Allen Shepard, 74 of Marble Hill, passed away on Monday June 23, 2025 at John Cochran VA Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri after a rapidly courageous fight with lung cancer. He peacefully entered his eternal home with our Lord and Savior surrounded by those who loved him most.

Mike was born on December 31, 1950 to J.C. and Dorthea Shepard. He served and navigated the open seas as a Quartermaster in the United States Navy aboard the USS Kearsarge and the USS Okinawa during the Vietnam War from April 17, 1969 to January 5, 1973. Mike shared many stories of his exciting travels, encounters, and experiences while serving in the US Navy. He was based in San Diego, California and often traveled to Long Beach, California. He also spent a significant amount of time in the Philippines and Hawaii. During his tour he also had the unique experience of being a part of the recovery team for the Apollo 15 spacecraft.

After an honorable discharge Mike enrolled at Three Rivers Community College in Poplar Bluff, Missouri where he earned his Associate Degree and then continued his education at Southeast Missouri State University in Cape Girardeau, Missouri where he earned his Bachelor’s of Science Degree and Teacher’s Certification. He taught junior high and high school science for three years at Delta School District. He then found his true calling as a Farrier when he attended the Oklahoma Horseshoeing School in Purcell, Oklahoma near Oklahoma City.  He spent the rest of his life serving the Horse Community and truly loved every moment.

While his true passion was horse riding he was also an avid dancer for 15 years. He loved learning new dances and has been caught in the wee hours of the night practicing his dance moves for perfection in the living room by himself.

Mike entered into marriage with Jeanette Alleen Gordon on November 23, 1973 at Poplar Bluff Missouri. They had four children Jimmy, Robert, Ron, and Tami. Jeanette preceded him in death on Sunday, September 1, 2002.

He is survived by his sweetheart, Barb Fraser of Fredericktown, MO; Children: son Ron and daughter-in-law Sarah Shepard of Grassy, MO; daughter, Tami and son-in-law David Young of Houston, TX; son, Robert and daughter-in-law Melissa Champagne of Elsinore, MO; son Jimmy Champagne of Orlando FL; eleven grandchildren: Lane, Rain, and Roni Jo Shepard; Emily and Joshua Young; Harley, Cicely, and Rhiannon Champagne; JJ Champagne, April and Brandon Lincoln; three great grandchildren; five sisters: Carol, Sharon, Linda, Janice, and Diane: two brothers: Ron and Frank; numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins and his beloved favorite dog, Tessy.

He is also preceded in death by his parents, and two brothers: Bill and Jerry.

Mike was an icon of the community. He always took the time for a chat or a joke with a friend. His smile was infectious and genuine. He never met a stranger.

Please join us to celebrate the memorable life of Michael Allen Shepard at Grassy Friendship General Baptist Church on Saturday June 28, 2025. Visitation from 10:00 to 11:00 AM. Memorial Service at 11:00 AM with speaker Jerry Howell and Pastor Ray Greenlee officiating.

Military Honors presented by the VFW of Marble Hill, MO, following the service. 

Service arrangements are being handled by Hutchings-Pendergrass Funeral Chapel.