Richard John Shepard, Sr.'s Obituary
The Family of Richard John Shepard Sr of Harrington, Delaware is saddened to report his passing on August 10, 2025, at the age of 86 years.
Born in Shamokin, PA on July 30, 1939, to William Richard and Mary Wells Shepard, he was the youngest of six children. Richard grew up in Aston Township, PA, graduating from Eddystone High School, Eddystone, PA in 1957.
Richard went to work for the A & P grocery company and pursued his dream of building an Autobody shop, and building Drag Race vehicles.
November 11, 1961 he married Miriam Ruth Wall Shepard the love of his life who remained his devoted wife for 64 years.
Drafted into the US Army in 1963, he served his active duty at Fort Knox, Kentucky. He relished military life and was voted soldier of the month, received his sharpshooter badge and his good conduct medal during his tenure at Fort Knox. He was honorably discharged with the rank of SP5 (Sergent).
Moving to Harrington, DE in 1965 he and his wife Miriam founded Holly Glen Farm where they bred, raised and showed multiple World, National and Congress Champion Quarter Horses and Appaloosa's which continues to this day. He was a member and past vice president of the Delaware Quarter Horse Association and a charter member and past president of the Delaware Appaloosa Horse Association. The family also sponsored one of the largest open horse shows on the eastern shore since 1975 celebrating their 50th year in 2025.
During his long 50 plus year career in supermarket management, he worked for A&P, Safeway, Thriftway, Meatland/Foodcity and Foodlion in multiple locations all over the Delmarva Peninsula.
Following retirement in 2011 Richard enjoyed maintaining his farm, spending time with his family, fishing in his farm pond and cruising the estate in his golf cart with his loyal cattle dog, Eli.
He was a member of the Harrington Baptist Church, he loved the Lord, his Family and United States of America and exhibited his Christian character and Patriotism in many charitable ways.
Richard is survived by his wife of 64 years Miriam Ruth Wall Shepard, his son Richard "John" Shepard Jr. his grandson Richard John (RJ) Shepard III, twin sisters Patsy Bradley, Middletown, DE, Peggy Lister of Silver Springs, MD, numerous nieces and nephews as well as dear family members Trista, Ashlyn and Kayla North and Danielle Botterman Shepard.
His Viewing will be held at the Frampton Funeral Home, Fleischauer Chapel in Greenwood, DE on Friday August 15, 2025. Family and Friends may call from 10:00 am until 11:00 am. Funeral Service will begin at 11am followed by Burial in the St. Johnstown Cemetery, Greenwood, De.
The Shepard's would like to invite Family and Friends to join them for refreshments following the Burial at the Bridgeville Banquet Center 18531 S Main Street, Bridgeville, DE 19933
In Lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to:
Delaware Hospice at 555 E. Lockerman Street, Suite 200, Dover, DE 19901
www.delawarehospice.org
Share memories and condolences with the family at www.framptom.com
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