Robert Lee Sheppard Jr.

Robert Lee Sheppard Jr. was born October 22, 1939. He was born to the parentage of Marie Davidson Smith and Robert Lee Sheppard Sr. After the passing of his father at an early age, Robert received a bonus dad, Mr. Alvin Smith, who continued to raise him. He attended schools from the Dallas Independent School District graduating from Booker T. Washington High School. He graduated from Prairie View A&M University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Mathematics and was an award-winning Texas State Pole Vault champion. Robert then worked at Braniff International Airport and Dalfort Aviation for several years.

Once he retired, Robert became a crossing guard for Richardson Independent School District and eventually retired as a crossing guard in 2015.

On June 5, 1965 he married the love of his life, Ira Virginia “Lou” Sheppard. To this union, five children and two grandchildren were raised by their hands. Because of this blessed union, Robert was able to see 15 great-children. Robert, who was an avid sports and Dallas Cowboys fan, would be seen at any sporting event supporting family and friends until his health failed. He transitioned from labor to reward July 3, 2022. Robert was preceded in death by his 3 parents, 3 siblings, 3 sisters-in-laws, and 1 brother-in-law.

Robert will be truly missed by all who encountered him. He leaves to cherish his memories: his loving wife of 57 years, Ira, 5 children: Toni, Chauton (Terry), Derrick (Tiffany), Delecia (Ben), and James, 5 sisters: Wilma (Doug), Neil (Walter), Maureen, Onetta, and Nanneva, 10 grandchildren, 15 great-children, 4 sisters-in-law, 1 brother-in-law, special cousins: Robert and Hattie Potter Sr., and a host nieces, nephews, and family.