William James Shepherd

I am extremely saddened to hear this news. I was a student at Wellington High School from 1960 to 1964. Both in the marching band and concert band I played Coronet. Bill Shepherd instilled in me a love of music that has enriched my life to this day. I will be 79 years old next month and I think of Bill quite often and will continue to do so. Thanks for the Memories Bill Shepherd.

Mr. Shepherd was my high school band instructor at Wellington High School in Ohio. He was demanding and supportive, and our band was lauded.

He was Mr. Shepherd to everyone, but he was simply "Shep" to those students who loved him. He cared about every member of his band, whether you were First Chair or all thumbs. He was strict but fair, always with a sense of humor. I can still see him up on the High School fire escape, with his bullhorn in hand, yelling at the "Rookies" to pick up their feet. Whether it was Tiajuana Taxi, Beethoven´s 5th or Stars & Stripes, we played our best because we were playing for "Shep". On the rare...

I am so saddened to hear. Of Bill´s passing. While at Findlay, he also taught the trombone students at Heidelberg College in Tiffin. I was fortunate to have spent time with him there. The highlight of my trombone career was when Bill brought The Worlds Greatest Trombone Player, Urbie Green to Findlay and we got to play songs from Urbie´s 21 Trombones recording. Bill was an amazing man and musician, and taught me well! I am still playing at 70 years old! Big Band member and loving it...

Bill was a good friend and trombone instructor to my brother Ober Smith. Especially remember the wonderful trombone solo Bill played at Over´s funeral service. Sure wish I could have been there for him.

Mary~~~So sorry to hear this sad news. Love you. ~~~Bob & Bev McCusker

Thinking of all you children and your families at this sad time. William added Music to our lives and we will forever remember him for enriching us.