Irene W Shepard

Irene was born in New Bedford, Massachusetts on December 6, 1927. She was one of seven children of French Canadian immigrants. She attended public school in New Bedford and graduated from the Cape Cod Hospital School of Nursing with a Licensed Practical Nurse certificate in 1963. She worked for several years in hospitals and in private duty in the New Bedford area.

Irene married Albert Shepard, also of New Bedford, MA, in 1967. They re-located to Martinez, GA in 1988. Both were active in numerous local tennis leagues and clubs; most notably the Petersburg Racquet Club and Raes Creek. Irene was a competitive tennis player and traveled to numerous tennis tournaments. In 1997 she achieved a USTA national ranking of #8 in the Women’s 65 Singles. In 2007 she was ranked #1 in the Women’s 80 Singles and #5 in the Women’s 80 Doubles. She and Al were also championship bowlers and won many awards in this sport.

Irene and Al were baptized into the Martinez Baptist church in 2015. They looked forward to Sunday Services and were active participants in the church community. Irene volunteered at the Augusta Senior Center from 1995-1996. She loved being outdoors and tending her garden and birdfeeders.

Irene leaves behind her two daughters, Susan Wareing of Dartmouth, MA and Jean Borges (William) of Westport, MA. She also leaves three step-children: Debra Braga of Maine, Lewis and Gerald Shepard of New Bedford, MA. She was blessed with 10 grandchildren and several great-grandchildren. She was fortunate to have had several close friends in Martinez, including Esta, Linda, Susie, Flo, Sandy and Trudy who maintained contact with her throughout her long illness. Her family is particularly grateful to Karen Otting for the loving care she provided during the past year.

Irene passed on November 24, 2023 at Doctors Hospital.

Arrangements will be managed by Elliott Sons in Martinez. A memorial service will be held at 11am on Wednesday, November 29th at Martinez Baptist Church.