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Suzanne Shepard Obituary
May 8, 1948 - October 8, 2021
Fort Worth, Texas - Suzanne Keast Shepard died peacefully on October 8th, 2021 surrounded by her family.
Suzi was born on May 8th, 1948 in Dalhart, Texas, the daughter of Joe and Marie Keast, and earned a bachelor's degree from Texas Christian University and a master's degree in history from the University of Texas at Arlington. Suzi lived in California and Germany before settling back in Fort Worth and raising two children.
A gifted educator, Suzi taught for over 40 years in a variety of settings, including elementary and special education. Her proudest professional assignments were teaching unaccompanied minors arriving at the U.S.-Mexico border and teaching English-as-a-second-language (ESL) classes to adult Spanish speakers in the evenings. Both settings resonated with her compassion and commitment to serving others.
After retiring from full-time teaching, Suzi embraced a range of interests and volunteer activities, including Texas Aggie football, an active Bible study, and serving as a docent at the Amon Carter Museum of American Art, where her fond appreciation for the works of Scott and Stuart Gentling and other American artists rubbed off on many patrons.
Suzi had a deep, erudite, and ecumenical faith and was an active part of multiple church communities. Her greatest love was for her family, and she derived immeasurable joy hosting pizza nights and sleepovers with her two grandchildren.
Suzi is survived by her brother David Keast and his wife Mary Jane, son John Shepard and daughter-in-law Shawn Shepard, daughter Annie Stewart and son-in-law Josh Stewart, grandchildren Shepard Stewart and Sippi Stewart, and nieces Emily Ellis and Julia Rich. Visitation with the family will begin on Tuesday, October 12th at 5 pm followed by a rosary at 6 pm at St. Andrew Catholic Church, 3312 Dryden Rd. The memorial service will be held on Wednesday, October 13th at 1 pm at First Presbyterian Church, 1000 Penn St.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions in Suzi's memory be made to one of the following: The Sisters of St. Mary of Namur ESL Program, 909 W Shaw St., Fort Worth, TX 76110, www.ssmnwestern.com/contribute; or First Presbyterian Church Community Crossroads, 1000 Penn St., Fort Worth, TX 76102, www.fpcfw.org/give.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Suzanne Shepard
Sponsored by the Star-Telegram.
6 Entries
Rick Nisbett
October 21, 2021
I spent so many days and nights in the Keast home in the Village of Dalhart that I considered Suzy the older sister I never had. My heartfelt condolences go out to David and Mary Jane and their family. I know you have celebrated her incredible life and carry her in your hearts forever.
Jane Ann Kelly
October 19, 2021
I am so sorry for your loss, David and family.
As a little girl, I looked up to Suzi- she was beautiful, kind, and always smiling. Suzi was a perfect role model and I am proud to have known her!
You are all in my prayers.
Beverly Peck Pirkle
October 18, 2021
My heart is broken over this loss. I babysat Suzi & David every Saturday night for years. Suzi and David were lovely, lively children whom I remember often. I still have a picture of them from that time. I'm glad to know what a full life she lived. Condolences for their loss to her children & to David. with his family.
Donna Brasch Summerour
October 15, 2021
My condolences to the family. I have known the Keast Family since childhood and lived across the street from them since high school years. There are lots of great memories that we all had growing up together. So sad about this loss of Suzi. Blessings to the family and love to you all.
Donna Brasch Summerour
Sara Hostelka
October 12, 2021
My deepest sympathy for you all on the loss of such a treasure.
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Thompson Harveson & Cole Funeral Home & Crematory4350 River Oaks Blvd, Fort Worth, TX 76114
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