United States Army serving in the Korea War
MELROSE — Francis W. “Sonny” Shepherd III, 88, long time resident of Melrose, passed away peacefully at the Edith Nourse Rogers Memorial Veterans Hospital in Bedford on April 24 after his courageous two year battle with cancer.
Born in Somerville on September 6, 1934, he was the son of the late Frances (Nichols) Stone, Francis W. Shepherd II and stepfather John Stone. After growing up in Somerville and Stoneham, Francis went on to enlist in The United States Army, serving in Korea during the Korean War. Proud of his service, Francis returned home where he enjoyed his work as a machinist for numerous box companies.
Francis had a passion for art, sculpting, poetry and music. This passion led him to attend classes at Massachusetts College of Art where he furthered his love and skills in sculpting. Francis liked to spend time in the sun by the ocean and the companionship of his dog Daisy.
Above all, Francis adored his family. His greatest accomplishment was being a “Papa”. Spending quality time, attending sporting events and watching his grandchildren accomplish life milestones was what he loved most. In return, his family loved his infectious smile and sense of humor. In his presence laughter always filled the room.
Francis was the devoted father of Jill Cavalear of Melrose; Kimberly Flores of Palm Harbor, FL; Marie Dovale and her husband Charlie of Carver; the late Scott F. Shepherd of Melrose and the late Francis Haugh of FL. Loving brother of Jean Coakley of Somerville; Sandra Stone and her late husband Thomas Griffin of Reading; John Stone and his wife Stephanie of Malden; Norman Stone and his wife Linda of Wilmington; Constance Canova of Burlington, NC; and the late Lawrence Stone and his wife Cathy of Hampton, NH. Proud “Papa” of Brittany Davis-Cooke and her husband Jason; Hayley Cavalear; Scott Shepherd Jr.; Francesca and Mateo Flores; and Tiffany and Nicole Dovale. He is also survived by his significant other, Helen Buckley and her children, Lisa, Bill and Paige, and many nieces and nephews.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Gifts in memory of Francis may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, PO Box 758516, Topeka, KS., 66675-8516 or woundedwarriorproject.org. For online tribute, please visit RobinsonFuneralHome.com.