James Dean Sheppard

JAMES DEAN "JAMIE" SHEPPARD

James Dean Sheppard, 41, went to his heavenly home with Jesus on Sunday, June 12, 2022. He was born on October 15, 1980 in West Palm Beach, Florida. Jamie was a beloved son, grandson, nephew, father, and friend.

Jamie was preceded in death by his son, Michael James Sheppard; his father, Dean Edward Sheppard; paternal grandparents, Richard and Barbara Sheppard; maternal grandfather, James A. Shaw, Sr.; grandmother, MaryJo Donaldson; and great grandmother Etta M. Green.

Jamie leaves cherished memories for his father and mother, Daniel and Susan Donaldson; maternal grandmother, Elaine Shaw; grandfather, Dennis Donaldson; sister, Nicole (Patrick) Keeney and niece Karissa; brother, Scott (Ashlyn) Sheppard and niece, Shayln, and nephew, Kaine; dear friend, Amy Gill, and special and beloved like a daughter, Haley Gill; Uncle Alan (Apple) Shaw; Uncle Robert Shaw; Uncle Donald Shaw; Aunt Elaine (Dan) White; Uncle James A. Shaw, Jr. (Sandra) ; Aunt Amy Shaw; Uncle David (Tammy) Donaldson; Aunt DeLaine (John) Cribb; Aunt Carol Griffin; Uncle Glanton Pyle; along with a host of beloved cousins, and dear friends.

James Dean "Jamie" Sheppard loved Jesus and had a heart to serve others. He gave his heart to the Lord at a young age, and enjoyed serving on the worship team, singing and playing guitar. He also worked as a sound technician. In high school, he joined friends to form the Christian band, Unforsaken. He also went on a mission trip to Mexico. He went there to serve others, but he shared the impact that being there made on him; that he was blessed. The Lord is so faithful to bless a servant’s heart.

Jamie loved his family and friends with his whole heart. He was a good listener, and wonderful friend to others of all ages. He has treasured friends he’s known for a lifetime, and he has friendships formed just recently while staying at Lafayette Healthcare. He wasn’t there long before his heart to serve was in action. He befriended residents and found a genuine purpose in caring for and loving on these newfound friends. The Lord allowed Jamie to shine in this purpose and received much love and blessings in return.

Growing up, Jamie played youth football and baseball. As a teen he joined the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and trained in Tae Kwon Do, earning a black belt. Jamie also joined Suwannee Middle School band, playing the clarinet.
Jamie graduated from Melody Christian Academy in 1999, he worked in computer repair, and worked as a corrections officer for several years. He then went back to school, finding his God given purpose and gift in nursing; completing first his PCT, then obtaining his LPN.

Jamie had a kind heart, a beautiful smile, and was sure to bring smiles and laughter to others. He enjoyed fishing and loved playing guitar. He was self-taught and learned quickly, we know the Lord placed this gift in Jamie. He would play at family gatherings and would bring his guitar to the nursing home when visiting his great granny Green.

A dear friend describes knowing Jamie is a treasure. A favorite scripture for Jamie and his mom is Matthew 6:21, "For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." We know that Jesus is our treasure in heaven. A part of Jamie‘s heart has been in heaven with his son, Michael James. We find comfort in knowing Jamie is reunited with Michael James.

A Memorial Service for James Dean "Jamie" Sheppard, was held Saturday June 18th at 11:00 am at Alton Church of God, 2365 US-27, Mayo, FL 32066, with Pastor Tim Hamm and Pastor Thomas Dixon officiating. A meal to follow at the church after the memorial service.