Gerald Clayton Shepherd

Gerry was born in Great Falls, MT to Archie Eugene and Jane (Keaster) Shepherd and lived on the multigenerational Shepherd Ranch. Gerry graduated from Highwood High School, attended, and graduated with a Bachelor's from Long Beach State College then obtained his Master's degree in vocational counseling from South Dakota State University. Gerry married Julie Townsend and had 2 children, KiIa and Derrek. Julie later died of cancer. Gerry was a USAF Captain with the Strategic Air Command for nearly 12 years. He briefly worked for a farming company, transporting large equipment across several states, particularly Arizona. Gerry then returned to Vandenberg AFB where he had been previously stationed and was a Master Planner for various missile operations from 1981 to 2015 for Martin Marietta, Jacobs Engineering, and then United Paradyne. Gerry met his wife Teresa Riley while both were working for Martin Marietta and they married Aug 12, 1989. On Feb 1, 2016, Gerry was Diagnosed with stage IV pancreatic cancer. 3 years and 11 months later on Jan 4th, 2020, his battle ended and he went peacefully to heaven. Gerry leaves behind his wife Teresa, brother Russ Shepherd, sister Sandra Shepherd (Kirk Price), son Derrek Shepherd (Janene Sanchez Shepherd) and their children Sam Shepherd, and Lauren Shepherd, daughter Kila Shepherd, stepsons Jeremy Flores with children Matthew and Zoe, and David Flores (Naomi Leon Flores) with daughters Mila and Isla. His granddaughter Julie Shepherd preceded him in death. He also leaves behind his little buddy cat, Smokey who keeps looking for him and many friends who loved his charming smile and wit. He was ever helpful, kind and loving to all and will be deeply missed.

A celebration of life gathering will be held at a later date.