James Shepard

James Shepard
July 6, 2021
Cambria , California - Early on the morning of July 6th, our dearly beloved family Patriarch James H. Shepard, left this earth and joined the multitude of sparkling stars within the ever expanding universe. Over his 76 years on earth he was lovingly referred to by so many as Jamie, James, Jimmy, Shep, Jim, Dad, Pop, Grandpa and Uncle. Sometimes even Mr. Shepard, which he didn't prefer, to him, it was just Jim.
Jim, was blessed in life by being many things, a son, a brother, a husband, a father, grandfather, uncle, great-uncle, a veteran, music concert promoter, lover of the Blues, a teacher, artist, master craftsmen, a traveler, seeker of truth, engineer, designer, mentor, a so-so golfer, a great storyteller, a trickster (wink, wink) and a great friend, a real gentleman. Jim, was also a wonderful Collaborator, someone who loved working with his hands, along side his friends and fellow colleagues on projects large or small, be it building his own studio or gas fired kiln to planting a simple summer garden.
Jim's interest in all forms of art started at a very early age and as he grew so did his artistic skills, sketching, drawing, painting, pottery or sculpture, he could do it all. He never stopped being a life long learner, a constant student, always loving to learn something new or the how-to from first hand experience or through study and research.
He and his beautiful wife Suzanne also a very accomplished artist, were fortunate too travel together throughout Europe, Mexico, Canada, and across the US. They were able to spend several semesters abroad studying art in England as well as being selected as Artists in Residents, for a teacher exchange in New Zealand, during his tenure at Fresno City College.
Jim was so fortunate to live a life full of experiences. He was larger than life in many ways; kind, warm, inviting, connecting, and lovingly humble, never considering himself other than a equal to all who crossed his path.
We will miss his great big hugs and his beautiful smile, or sitting on his back deck over looking the coastal canyon, sharing stories over a great glass of wine, plus a hundred other lovely things. But given time we will remember them all; "I remember everything" as one of his favorites the late great John Prine sang. So right now we are all smiling through our tears as we remember and reflect on his great strong heart and beautiful soul!
He fought the good fight and those that may become stricken or suffer from cancer in the future will benefit from your willingness to try new protocols in cancer treatment.
Jim, leaves behind his beautiful wife Suzanne Sloan Lewis, to whom he was devoted. His devoted lovely daughter Katrina Shepard, who took loving care of him in his final months. His sister Nancy Shepard Griggs and husband Charlie, son Gabriel Lewis, granddaughter Julia Lewis and grandson Jack Lewis, son Ted Modrell, wife Holly and grandson Abe. Plus all the cousins, sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews, and a multitude of life long friends. His net was thrown wider than he ever could have imagined. We'll see ya when we see ya, our sweet Jim!
You can honor Jim's memory through a donation to your favorite cause or charity and by hugging your loved ones tight. Peace!