Arthur Henry "Art" Shepherd Jr.

Arthur (Art) Henry Shepherd Jr, 86, died peacefully at home surrounded by the love of his family on February 22, 2026.

Art was born in Hudson and spent most of his life residing in Hudson except for a short period of his childhood and adulthood that he lived in Litchfield NH. When Art was young his family lived on a chicken farm in Litchfield for a few years, helping to raise and care for the large flock.

At age 14 he followed in his father's and Uncle's footsteps and began serving the Hudson Fire Department as a Junior Fireman. He enjoyed his time on the department and would reminisce about the firemen's musters. He could be found in a full clown suit and challenging other departments in the obstacle races. Art served as President of the Firemen's Relief Association. He reached Lieutenant status prior retiring when the department transitioned from volunteer to full time.

As a young man Art worked for Rodger Brothers doing roofing, Albert Farland Paving, and Roger Boucher as a heating and air-conditioning technician. Art then went in to business for himself; Arthur Shepherd Heating & Air Conditioning until his retirement at age 60years.

Art was a graduate of Alvirne High School class of 1957 and remained active with the Alumni. Art could be found each morning at McDonald's having an apple pie and a coffee with his friends. As a younger man he enjoyed fishing, hunting, and being at The Hudson Speedway.

The most important piece of Art's life was his wife and family. He and Reta were Married 60 years prior to her passing in 2020. The two of them had a love others can only wish for. They were true soul mates who loved and supported one another their entire life. Together they raised a family, traveled, enjoyed card games, and many winters in Las Vegas playing bingo. Art cared for Reta when she became ill with Alzheimer's and had so much compassion and patience. He was an incredible role model to his children. When the children were young they enjoyed camping trips, card games, and vacations. Art was not just kind to his own children but also took the neighborhood children fishing, to the races, or camping. He was known to take the entire baseball or softball team out for ice cream after games. Art and Reta could be found supporting their children whether it was spectating sports, helping build houses, or just giving advice. They continued to always be there for their grandchildren as well. The love and support they both showed their family was immense. After Reta's passing Art was devastated and found comfort in being with his family. He especially enjoyed spending time with his siblings. He and his sister Marion began to winter together at her Florida home, which he absolutely loved.

Art is survived by his four children: Jeff Shepherd and wife Tracy of Weare, NH, Randy Shepherd and his husband Keith Emerson of Tucson AZ, Brian Shepherd of Hudson NH, and his daughter Jodi Schroeder and her husband Scott of Hudson NH; seven grandchildren: Leslie Bope and her husband Ben, Jessica Dimeo and her husband Nate, Kyle Shepherd, Abbey Bajraktari and her husband Nuri, Jeffrey Shepherd, Tyler Schroeder and Samantha Stevens and her husband Joseph; five great-grandchildren: Dakota Dimeo, Wesley Stevens, Christian Bope, Abigail Bope, Cameron Bope; and a future great-grandchild expected in May. His siblings: Sister: Marion Rodgers of Hudson NH, brother Robert Shepherd of Goffstown NH, and his sister Lu Ann Jobin and her husband Steve of Merrimack NH. He was predeceased by his parents; Arthur and Beatrice Shepherd and his spouse Reta (Garside) Shepherd.

The family expresses their gratitude to all the caregivers from Amedisys Hospice and Dartmouth Hitchcock. The family invites friends and family to attend calling hours at the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock Street, Nashua on Friday February 27, 2026 from 4-7pm. Casual dress attire. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.farwellfuneralservice.com