Peggy Jo Shepherd

Peggy Jo Shepherd journeyed from this life on September 19, 2025 in the care of Ohio Living Hospice at the home of son, Vernon Lee, who is grateful for the presence of friends and family. Peggy was born March 13, 1936 to Joseph and Ruth (Turvey) Kestner of Amsterdam. As a child, she wrapped pies and cookies in the Turvey Bakery, visited aunts Faye and Doris in Cleveland, and camped in Lakeside-Marblehead with uncle Lewis' family. Peggy married Ray A. Shepherd on September 14, 1952. They purchased the McClave farm between the Shepherd and Evans farms. Peggy braved great risk to save sons from a fire in the old farmhouse. They built the "house on top of the hill" on Springfield Twp Rd 265 where they lived over fifty years. Peggy was mother to four sons, Danny m. Thea, Bernard, Rev. Vernon Lee, Allen m. Rudi, was grandmother to six with several great grandchildren. Ray passed after 65 years of marriage, and sister Carla Brancker predeceased Peggy. Peggy longed for the open spaces of her country home and was eager to see again her parents, Ray, relatives and friends. Peggy had an artistic eye to draw and decorate. She enjoyed her ceramic studio, extensive flower gardens, Iris her favorite bloom, and hummingbird haven. Peggy was an enthusiastic decorator for Christmas with several trees, garlands, ceramics and collectibles. People looked for her butterscotch pies and cookies. On break from his band, Ray and Peggy were smooth movers on the dance floor. Peggy for many years drove her sons to music lessons. President of the Springfield High Band Boosters, she led a project to build the new concession stand. A grand 50th anniversary celebration for three couples included Peggy and Ray, his sisters Marian m. Earl Abel, and Audrey m. Tony Kapelewski. Christian memorial is pending with interment at Harlem Springs Cemetery. Donate to a charity in memory of Peggy. Condolences are received at Shepherd PO Box 5455 Fairlawn OH 44334.