John Schofield Shepard, 83, of Winchester, VA, passed at home on Monday, August 4, 2025. He was born in 1942 in White Hall, VA, the son of Edwin H. Shepard, Sr., and Mildred (Clevenger) Shepard.

The early struggles of his life as a foster child forged in him a strong work ethic that lasted a lifetime. Over 70 years ago, John began working in local orchards picking apples and building fences. Those fence posts still stand today.

He built his life around the well-being of his family. For several years, John was a cherished member of the home of Pat and Linda Russell, and their children. In turn, he steadfastly cared for his siblings, Eddie and Mary. John proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam Era. He worked for Orndoff’s Abattoir in White Hall, making memories with his brother-in-law Charles Orndoff and the Orndoff children. Later, he enjoyed a career at Valley Proteins, retiring after 32 years as a dedicated truck driver who never missed a day of work.

On July 21, 1967, John married Carolyn Sue Gray in Hagerstown, MD. She preceded him in death on September 3, 2021. Together they raised two sons, Mike and Brad, in the same house since 1969, instilling in them the values of integrity and hard work. Though he often took weekend side jobs, he always found time to throw a football with his kids and attend countless hours of band practices, fundraisers, and competitions. John was a NASCAR and sprint car fan, enjoyed going to car shows, and admired Ford pickup trucks. He found delight in listening to bluegrass and gospel music along with watching Western movies.

His greatest joy was found in the rhythm of life; family hikes, splitting wood with his grandsons or swinging a hammer, bringing construction projects to life. Despite limited schooling, John often invented practical solutions to workplace, farm, and home challenges with thoughtful mechanical engineering. A loving “Pappy” to his five grandchildren, he always looked forward to family dinners and gatherings with those closest to his heart.

In addition to his wife and parents, John was preceded in death by his brother, Edwin H. Shepard, Jr., and daughter-in-law, Cheryl Shepard.

John is survived by his sons, Michael S. Shepard, Bradley G. Shepard (Anne); grandchildren, Emerson G. Shepard, Locke S. Shepard, Arielle M. Shepard, Isaac F. Shepard, Luke R. Shepard; and his sisters, Joline Shepard Orndoff, Linda Shepard Russell and Mary Shepard Strosnider.

Relatives and friends are invited to visitation on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Omps Funeral Home, 1600 Amherst St., Winchester, VA. The funeral service will be at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Laetitia Schoeman officiating. Interment immediately following in Mount Hebron Cemetery. Afterwards all are invited for food and fellowship in a celebration of John’s life at Omps Reception Center.