William "Bill" Frederick Shepherd

 William Frederick Shepherd, 84, of Mechanicsville, Virginia, peacefully went to be with the Lord on Sunday, September 21, 2025. He was born on June 25, 1941, in Lawton, Oklahoma, to the late Brigadier General James M. Shepherd and Frances S. Shepherd. Bill is survived by his devoted wife, Carol J. Shepherd; his daughters, Aline “Francie” Ford (Marcel van der Aar), and Mary C. Kelly (husband Bill); and his stepchildren, Allen Harrell (wife Kim), and Dale Harrell (wife Betty). He is also survived by his brother, James S. Shepherd of Atlanta, and his wife Ashma; grandchildren, Luke Ford, Grant Ford, Jack Kelly, Mary Kate Kelly, Emily Wolfe, Emily Kenny, James Harrell, Justin Harrell, and Zachary Harrell; and nephews Jim Shepherd and David Shepherd.  He graduated from Washington and Lee High School in Arlington, Virginia, and furthered his education at the Virginia Military Institute (VMI), from which he proudly graduated.  Bill honorably served his country in the U.S. Army Reserve, continuing a legacy of military service instilled by his father. Bill was a lifelong train enthusiast and talented musician, playing both the tuba and the cello. He found great joy in gardening, photography, and studying history. A man of deep faith, Bill devoted himself to Bible study, not only as a student but also as a teacher. He and Carol were members of New Bethesda Baptist Church, where they found a loving church family that meant the world to them. He also enjoyed movies and the cleverness of a good British mystery. Bill was preceded in death by his first wife, Aline S. Shepherd, loving mother to Francie and Mary.  A private graveside service will be held for the family, followed by a Celebration of Life Service and reception on October 12th at 2:00 pm, at New Bethesda Baptist Church, 9019 New Bethesda Road, Mechanicsville, VA 23116.  All who knew and loved Bill are welcome to attend.

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