Virginia G. Shepherd

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Simmons University

Virginia Shepherd Obituary

SHEPHERD, Virginia G. - Passed away at her home in San Mateo, CA, on May 3, 2005. Loving mother of Prudence Pigott, Priscilla Carson, Bruce, Colin, Scott and Kent Shepherd, whom she raised in Hillsborough, CA. A beloved grandmother of 22 -- Nick, Conor, Justin, Scott, Kyle, Sandy, Rosie, Danielle, Thomas, Christiana, Stephanie, Jack, Grant, Audrey, Will, Mary, Juliette, Victoria, Jake, Deirdre, Catherine and Albert. Beloved mother-in-law to Terry Pigott, Peter Carson, Susan, Jacki, Heidi and Jennifer Shepherd. Virginia was born on March 20, 1932, in Massachusetts to parents Albert and Grace Healy. She received her early Catholic religious instruction at The Cenacle, New York City, and graduated from Hasbrook Heights High School, New Jersey, in 1949, as class salutorian, and from Simmons College, Boston, in 1953. She was an extraordinary mother, grandmother, friend and role model: a loving soul who treated all with compassion, respect, acceptance and generosity. She embraced life with grace, humor, dignity and courage, and she possessed great intellect and creativity. Virginia was a caring volunteer/ contributor to community service organizations including Parental Support Phone-Line, Poplar Center Auxiliary & Annual Halloween Fund-Raiser, Hillsborough Schools, St. Anthony's Dining Room/Foundation, and a long list of other charitable causes. She lived for several months each year in Barnstable, MA, on Cape Cod, one of her favorite places, where she gathered regularly with family and friends. The priority she placed on family and time spent together created lasting memories and an enduring family legacy. Visitation on Monday night, May 9, from 7 - 9:00 pm with a Vigil Service at 7:30 pm, at St. Bartholomew's Catholic Church at 300 Alameda de las Pulgas, San Mateo. Funeral service Tuesday, May 10 at 10:00 am at St. Bartholomew's Church with reception to follow. Gifts in memory to St. Anthony's Foundation, 121 Golden Gate Ave., P.O. Box 39000 San Francisco, CA 94139. If flowers, please send Monday to St. Bartholomew's Church, San Mateo.

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Published by San Francisco Chronicle from May 7 to May 8, 2005.

Memories and Condolences
for Virginia Shepherd

4 Entries

Leora Tec

May 10, 2005

As Priscilla's friend from college and Spain, I had the privilege of hanging out with Virginia in various venues: Berkeley, San Mateo, the Cape and Wellesley to name a few. I rememeber her humor, her grace, her intelligence and her interest in so many things. And how she loved those grandchildren! She was one of those friend's parents who it was fun and interesting to talk to! Though I haven't seen her in awhile, I miss her already. My thoughts are with Priscilla, all her siblings and all of Virginia's grandchildren.

Nancy Branka

May 10, 2005

Virginia had such a gift for making those she knew feel special. And that is, I think, the most important, lasting gift any of us can be given. I know I always felt loved, understood and supported when I was with her. She was a very, very special friend to my parents and to me--and will be missed dearly.

Steve Cashman

May 9, 2005

Some of my earliest childhood memories are swimming at the Shepherd's house in Hillsborough. I was in kindergarten at the time.

Virginia really helped my mother fit into our new California life after a long move from Lexington, Massachusetts. Virginia just radiated with love and warmth. For her family and for all who can in touch with her.

We wish all of the Shepherd family peace in this difficult time. Your mother made this world a better place and Heaven is now a richer place as well.

Love,

Steve, Mary Jane, Charlie & Jane Cashman

Meg Graham

May 7, 2005

Virginia Shepherd, my Godmother, had a tremendous impact on my life. Aside from my parents, Virginia's influence was one of the strongest in my life. She was a shining example of how to live with kindness, grace and dignity. She was my role model. Virginia's unconditional love always made me feel so special. We shared a spiritual connection as well as some of the same interests. We both loved Christmas and we sent each other special things to celebrate our love of that season. I am so grateful that my parents had the foresight to choose Virgina to play such an important role in my life. Virginia's love and generosity helped me become a more generous, loving person.

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