Richard DeWitt Shepherd

Richard DeWitt Shepherd (CSMgt.USAF Retired) went peacefully into the Lord's house, Tuesday, 17 March 2015 at the Circle of Life Hospice facility in Bentonville, Arkansas. Born 2 April 1930 to Francis Monroe Shepherd and Georgia Mildred Hall in Milan, Missouri, he spent his early childhood roaming the farms of his grandparents. The family later moved to Chicago, Illinois where Richard graduated from Proviso East High school. He joined the United States Air Force in 1951, having a distinguished career. He received a bronze star as well as additional medals for meritorious service. He proudly served until January 1977, when he moved to Bella Vista and finally set down permanent roots. He then embarked on a second career as a golf course maintenance supervisor for the Bella Vista POA - and many a golfer had Richard to thank that they could play through the ice and snow! He retired from that position in 2012, marking the end of his second career. He married the great love of his life, E. Lynette Copeland, on 7 May 1964 in Valdosta, Georgia and together they traveled the world making memories and life-long friends. He enjoyed his family, friends, golf, gardening and sitting on his peaceful deck watching glorious sunsets with his wife. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, E. Lynette Shepherd of Bella Vista, Arkansas; daughters Suzanne (Bob) Bettac of San Antonio, Texas and Renee Evert of Virginia Beach, Va.; four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren; a sister, Helen Shepherd of Portland, Mass.; numerous nieces and nephews and extended family he had adopted over the years; and his beloved puppy, Michelle. He was predeceased by his parents, son, Gary Kevin Shepherd and brother James Shepherd. Memorial Services will be held Saturday, 21 Mar 2015, at 3 p.m. at the Bella Vista Funeral Home. Interment will follow at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Circle of Life/ Legacy House, Bentonville, Arkansas, The American Cancer Society or the Charity of your choice. Condolences can be made online at www.funeralmation.com.