RICHARD STEPHEN SHEPERD

It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Richard Stephen Sheperd, 77, on Thursday, November 20, 2025. He passed away peacefully with his wife, Donna, by his side.

Born in Springfield, MA on August 20, 1948 to the late Lillian (Grise) and William Sheperd, Jr., Richard was a lifelong resident of the Springfield area before retiring to Vero Beach, Florida in 2016. He proudly served in the U.S. Army Reserve from 1969-1975, achieving the rank of Sergeant. Professionally, Richard "Dick" Sheperd dedicated over 20 years to Carando Foods, beginning as a charismatic salesman. His natural ability to connect with people and his unwavering work ethic led him to Vice-President of Sales, a position he held with pride. Later in life he followed a passion to change careers, completing a culinary arts program, and becoming a professional chef.

Richard loved cooking and he shared that love generously - preparing meals for neighbors, lending his talents to fundraisers, and helping make celebrations deliciously memorable. He will be remembered for his thoughtfulness and his belief that the time we share with others, especially around a meal, are the moments to cherish most. This was especially true when he was with his family. He and Donna loved spending time with their daughters and families. The five grandchildren were Grandpa's biggest source of pride and joy. He celebrated every one of their milestones with enthusiasm, using every moment to remind his grandchildren how truly special they were to him.

He is survived by his best friend and loving wife of 55 years, Donna Lynn (Ambrose); his two daughters, Julie Ann Ciolino and her husband James, Jodi Lynn Moriarty and her husband Patrick; his five grandchildren Salvatore Ciolino and his wife Phoebe, Stephen Ciolino and his wife Ella, Michael Ciolino, Megan Moriarty, and Shawn Moriarty; his two sisters Patricia (Sheperd) Bernardi and her husband Michael, Beverly (Sheperd) Henry and her husband Barry. In addition, he leaves behind numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, in-laws, friends, and neighbors.

To honor Richard's life, the family invites donations to the American Heart Association:

https://ahatribute.funraise.org/fundraiser/in-memory-of-richard-s-sheperd

A celebration of Richard's life will be held at a later date in Springfield, MA.

Grounded in a strong faith, Richard trusted in the promise that to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.

2 Corinthians 5:8