Thomas F. Shepard, a Lakewood police officer for 26 years, died Oct. 19.

He was 71 years old. 

Beloved husband for 50 years of Barbara (nee Yanich), Shepard was the devoted father of Mark, Jeffrey (Susan), Matthew (Kim), and Jennifer Stanton (MSGT Daniel). Loving grandfather of Collin, Claire, Faith, Jacob, Gabriella, Aydan, Danny Bocan, and Thomas Stanton. Brother of Edward (Doreen), Rita Hinkel (John), Fr. Timothy, S.J., William (Del), Mary Bostwick (Roger), Ann Misconish (Ron), Eileen Meder (Ben), and Julie Hummel (Joe). Uncle to many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents Joseph and Gertrude. Dear friend to many.

Shepard, a Rocky River resident, graduated from St. Edward High School, served in the USMC, retired after 26 years of service from the Lakewood Police Department, and 10 years with National City Bank.

The family will receive friends in celebration of his life from 2 to 8 p.m. Oct 19 at the McGorray-Hanna Funeral Home of Lakewood, with a Parastas prayer service at 6 p.m.

The family requests all to meet for his Divine Liturgy set for 10 a.m. Oct. 20 at St. Joseph Byzantine Church, 8811 Brecksville Rd., Brecksville.

Shepard will be buried at Holy Cross Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be sent to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or University Hospitals.