Robert Lee Shepard was born December 25, 1940, to the late Eddie Lee Shepard and Mary Alice Shepard (Ramey).  He was affectionately known as "Bobby".

Deacon Shepard grew up in New Jersey and later relocated to Akron, Ohio.  He worked for Somerville Funeral Home and Donaldson Funeral Home where he later retired.  He was currently employed at Triode Staffing working as a van driver.  He was also a former member of Mount Herman Lodge #5 Scottish Rite Mason.  Bobby loved fishing and watching old cowboy movies.  He was a faithful member of Mount Haven Missionary Baptist Church for many years.  He later joined Jerusalem Baptist Church.  He met his wife Sandra at Mount Haven, and they were married on May 27, 2000, and remained married until his passing.

Deacon Shepard leaves behind his loving and devoted wife Sandra (Powell) Shepard, children Robert (Bobby J), Anthony, James (Lenora), Marjorie, Dillan, Richard (Lacricia), Bonita, Trevin (Natasha), many grandchildren and great grandchildren, sister Mrs. Julia Moore of Irvington, New Jersey, brother Bishop Robert J. Farrell (ZaZa) of Sparta, New Jersey and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.  Mask are required to attend all services.