Linda M. Shepard, 87, of DeLancey, went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, Feb. 18, 2024, at her cherished home in DeLancey.
Born on Aug. 1, 1936 in Ashland, Linda was the middle of three daughters born to James “Bill” and Beatrice (Rogers) Tweedie. During her youth, she resided with special uncle and aunt, Clair and Frances Tweedie. Linda graduated from Delaware Academy High School, where she met her beloved husband Leonard “Porky” Shepard. They were married on Nov. 25, 1956, at the First Presbyterian Church in Delhi.
In 1967, Linda and Leonard made DeLancey their home, a decision she never regretted. She dedicated herself to her community, serving as a correspondent for local newspapers. Her weekly columns captured the essence of hometown life, sharing news of events, birthdays, anniversaries, and more, bringing joy to countless readers. She really appreciated hearing from followers near and far wishing her well or expressing their praise for her column.
A devoted member of the First Presbyterian Church in DeLancey, Linda taught Sunday school for over a decade and actively participated in various church activities. She found pleasure in gardening, collecting, and exploring local garage sales.
For an impressive 44 years, Linda served as the town clerk for the town of Hamden, retiring from her position in March 2017. Her dedication was unparalleled. She ran the town clerk’s office and monthly board meetings from her home before the town hall was built in 1987. She was known far and wide for her availability in issuing hunting and fishing licenses, always accommodating sportsmen with her welcoming demeanor.
Above all, Linda cherished her family. She made holidays memorable with her creative touches, from Easter egg hunts to handcrafted stockings filled with love.
She is survived by her son Wayne (the late Fran Shepard) of DeLancey, daughter Cathy Roloson of DeLancey, son Randy and Kimberley Shepard of Delhi, grandchildren Lynn Schriver, Jeremy Schriver (Kayla), Savannah Wake (Andrew), Amanda Boland (Greg), Chandler Mason (Micci), and Joshua Shepard (Emily), sixteen great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandchild, special cousin MaryKay Tweedie and her sister Marjorie “Marge” Tweedie of Margaretville.
She was preceded in death by her husband Leonard Shepard (2010), her parents, granddaughter Kristen Schriver, sister Gertrude Mostert, special uncle and aunt, Clair and Frances Tweedie, and special cousins Robert Tweedie and Patricia (Tweedie) Terry.
Linda will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her, but her legacy of love, dedication, and community spirit will forever endure. May she rest in peace, reunited with her loved ones in the embrace of the Lord.
Friends and relatives are invited to call from 10 a.m.-noon Saturday, May 4, at the DeLancey United Presbyterian Church, 444 county Highway 2, DeLancey, where a funeral service will follow at noon. Burial will be at Hamden Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers contributions in memory of Linda may be made to the DeLancey United Presbyterian Church or to Delhi EMS, PO Box 93, Delhi, NY 13753.
Visit www.macarthurfh.com to share a condolence with Linda’s family.
