Janice Valerie Sheppard was born January 22, 1948 in Cleveland, Ohio, the only child of the late Thurman Stallings and Dorothy Spearman. Jan received Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior at an early age and became an active member of Lane Metropolitan CME Church.
Jan received her Bachelor of Art degree in Education from Wayne State University where she met Ronald Sheppard. The college sweethearts were joined in holy matrimony in March 1973. To this union, three beautiful children were born: Sybil, Damien, and Kieran.
As a Montessori teacher for more than 20 years, Jan was not only an educator but she was an inspiration to many of the children in her community. She always encouraged them as well as her own children to be creative, try something new and enjoy what you do.
Jan loved the Lord and was a very active member of the St. Luke CME Church. For many years, she served as a Stewardess who prepared and served The Lords Supper; and served on the Missionary Society who witnessed through community outreach. She also worked in various capacities of the church including decorating the sanctuary during the holidays with wreaths and poinsettias to usher in the Christmas season. Jan had a love for wearing stylish hats and a flair for creating beautiful floral centerpieces and decorations. She also loved cooking delicious meals for her family and friends. Jan was especially known for her award winning bean pies. Jan was a wonderful wife, mother, and grandmother who loved her family.
On Friday, April 15, 2016 God called His angel home. She leaves to cherish her precious memory: her loving and devoted husband of 43 years: Ronald Sheppard; daughter: Sybil (Lee) Carter; two sons: Damien and Kieran (Jennifer) Nelson Sheppard; two grandsons: Alexander and Andrew; and a grandchild on the way, due to arrive in September; adopted mother: Elizabeth Barnett; and a host of other relatives and close friends.
Jans life was full with the blessings of God and she was always a joy to be around. Her family and friends will forever be enriched by her faith, love, wisdom, and strength.
Visitation: Thursday, April 21, 2016 - 2:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Paradise Funeral Chapel
3100 South Washington Avenue
Saginaw, Michigan
(989)754-4826
Family Hour: Friday, April 22, 2016 - 10:00 a.m.
St. Luke CME Church
1121 Tuscola Street
Saginaw, Michigan 48601(989)755-0351
Funeral Service: Friday, April 22, 2016 - 11:00 a.m.
St. Luke CME Church
1121 Tuscola Street
Saginaw, Michigan 48601
(989)755-0351
Officiating: Pastor Joyce Redfearn, St. Luke CME Church
Interment: Eastlawn Memorial Gardens & Mausoleum
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