Mother Ann Lee "LeeLee" Shepard

Mother Ann Lee (Ward) Shepard, 81 of Chauncey Street, passed away, Tuesday, December 30, 2025. She was the widow of Mr. Charlie A. Shepard.

Ann was born December 15, 1944 in Waterbury a daughter to the late Chester and Ida (Hayre) Ward.

"LeeLee" as she was known by family and close friends, attended Walsh school and obtained her High School GED and continuing her education receiving an Associates Degree in business from Naugatuck Valley Community College.

In her early years she had been employed by Uniroyal as a machine operator, U.S Timex as a machine operator, Mattatuck Bank & Trust, North American Bank, State of Connecticut Superior Courthouse Family Division until her retirement in 2010 after many years of service.

Mother Shepard was a dedicated and faithful member of the Refuge Church of Christ well over 50 years and served in different auxiliaries such as Ministers & Deacons wives guild, Women's Council, Missionary Dept. She served as church recording secretary for many years before retiring and served as a Church Mother on the Refuge Mother Board in which she loved. Mother Shepard was sound in the word. In the early 70's Mother Shepard attended many bible courses and received many certificates through the Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ. In her free time, she loved sewing, crossword puzzles, watching Jeopardy & Uconn women's basketball. Jimmie's of Savin Rock was her favorite place to eat whether with family or some of her close friends. Mom loved cooking and baking. Nothing was more important to mom than having family time during the holidays. Thanksgiving she would begin prep 'n days before because she wanted things just right for when family came together and sit around the table and eat and laugh. Mom's laughter was infectious. Mom also loved her dogs. Princess, Pepper, Maxx and Milo. And she also loved watching her children play sports while they were in their school years. She always encouraged her children to be their best, give their best, and never settle for less.

Ms. Shepard leaves to cherish her memory, her children, Lisa Ward, Scott (Donna) Ward, Darrin Shepard, Charlene Shepard, Keith Shepard and Cordell Shepard. 19 grandchildren, 27 great grandchildren, 14 great-great grandchildren, one sister; Jorgette (Robert) Gary, one brother; Anthony Ward and Sister in Love; Judy Ward, Florence (Shepard) Gibbs, a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and friends including her best friend, Melba Johnson. She was predeceased by siblings, Janice Ward, Nellie Ward, and Danny Ward, grandchildren Jamie Ward and Corey Ward.