SMYRNA - Alton J. Shepard, known as "Shep", of Trenton, N.J., residing in Smyrna, passed away on Tuesday, Dec. 21, 2010, at home. He was 87 years of age. Mr. Shepard was born May 1, 1923, in Raleigh, N.C., the son of the late George and Beatrice Shepard. He received a degree from Montclair State College and worked for 30 years as a Negotiator for the State of New Jersey then retired in 1991. He lived in New Jersey and Nevada before coming to Delaware and remained there until his death. He is survived by his loving wife, Mignon; two brothers, George and Leon; his son, Alton and his wife, Kathryn and son; two daughters, Carol Shepard and Cynthia Shepard-Wilson and her husband, Byron; and six grandchildren. Memorial services will be held Jan. 8, 2011, at New Covenant Presbyterian Church, 1125 Jamison Corner Rd., Middletown at 11 a.m. Contributions may be made to the American Heart Association. Condolence letters may be sent by visiting www.fariesfuneralhome.com.