James Brian Shepard

James Brian Shepard 9-20-1948 - 12-14-2007 James Shepard died peacefully after battling years of the debilitating effects of multiple sclerosis, and most recently, cancer. He was 59 years old. Jim was born in Erie, Pennsylvania and moved to Southern California with his family at age 10. He graduated from UCLA and completed his Master's of Divinity at Fuller Seminary in 1973. He began his career working as Minister of Christian Education in several American Baptist churches in Southern California and Santa Clara County. Following that, he worked with youth and adults in various correctional programs in Santa Clara County. He ended his career teaching Adult Education at Milpitas Unified School District, teaching GED, exit planning for Elmwood Jail inmates, and Citizenship. He has resided in Belmont for 19 years with his loving wife, Carolyn and son, Steven. He is survived by his mother, Marie Shepard of Belmont, and 3 brothers, John of Valencia, Richard of San Diego, and David of Auburn. He will be greatly missed by his friends and family. A Memorial Service is planned for Saturday, Dec. 22 at 2:00 p.m. at the First Baptist Church of Palo Alto, on 305 North California Ave. in Palo Alto. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the MS Society or any cancer organization of your choice.