Rickey Kent Shepard

Rickey K. Shepard: A Faithful Journey to Eternal Rest 

Rickey K. Shepard, born on December 7, 1957, to the late Richard and Ernestine (Wade) Shepard, entered this world as a blessing and left it in the peaceful embrace of the Lord on August 23, 2024. Affectionately known as "Rick", he was the youngest of four siblings and was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Ernestine Shepard; his father, Richard Shepard; his brother, Richard (Gill) Shepard; and his dear sister, Gwendolyn M. Shepard.

Rickey’s earthly journey was marked by his unwavering faith, love for music, and devotion to prayer. As a member of Mount Zion Ministry Baptist Church in Columbus, Ohio, Rickey found joy in worship and was a testament to God’s grace and love. He attended Stepping Stone Adult Day Services, where his light shone brightly to all who knew him. 

Rickey’s loving spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of his surviving family members: his brother, Michael A. Shepard; nieces and nephew, Tahnika Allen, Tasia Allen, and Tahj Robinson; and his great-niece and great-nephew, Amelia Owusu and Kingsley Owusu. He also leaves behind uncles, Frank (Maggie) Wade of Los Angeles, CA; aunts, Jean Hawkins, Joyce Shepard, and Darlene Baldwin, all of Columbus, Ohio. 

His devoted niece, Chanae Allen Ballentine, and nephew, Delvin Ballentine, stood by his side with unwavering dedication, sharing in the love and care that defined his final days, along with his best friend, Jocelyn Davis (known as Joe), and Michael of Day Hab. 

A host of other relatives, cousins, and friends join in remembering Rickey’s gentle and joyful spirit. 

Rickey found delight in the simple pleasures of life, whether it was a McDonald’s cheeseburger or the company of those he held dear. Though Rickey has left this physical world, his soul rests in the arms of our Heavenly Father. His life, filled with love, music, and faith, will be missed but never forgotten.