James W. "Jim" Shepherd passed away peacefully on April 7, 2018 at his home. Jim was born on Sept. 29, 1934 to the late James G. and Luella (Mack) Shepherd in Flint, Mich.
He was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force, serving during the Korean Conflict. Jim earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and World Literature from Central Michigan University, and completed the Master of Arts degree in Curriculum Development and Supervision from Rowan University. He retired from teaching English in the Caesar Rodney and Christina school districts after 31 years. Many of his students have remarked on the impact he had on their lives. Jim was an avid reader and enjoyed following current events. He also enjoyed fishing and camping at Delaware's numerous parks and lakes. Jim was a gifted musician, playing piano from the age of four. He served as choir director for many years at Calvary Baptist Church in Newark.
Jim was predeceased by his wife of 38 years, Priscilla Mae Hooper (Lagrange) Shepherd.
He is survived by his loving wife of 22 years, Robin; as well as son, James M. of Newark; daughter, Jacqueline Arpino (Jamie) of Middletown; step-daughters, Lisa Hickman (Mike) of New York City, Lauren Hickman-Herling (Roger) of Niles, Ill.; granddaughters, Megan Alexander (Tom) of Hockessin, Kara Joachimowski (Jamie) of Clayton, Kelsi Sturgis (Neil) of Wilmington, N.C.; grandsons, Alec Arpino of Middleton, Grayson Arpino of Smyrna; step-granddaughters, Olivia and Violet Herling of Niles, Ill.; and four great-grandchildren.
A celebration of his life will be held at Calvary Baptist Church, 215 E. Delaware Avenue, Newark, on Saturday, April 28, 2018. Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Following the service at 11 a.m., luncheon will be provided in Fellowship Hall.
The family would like to thank the staff of Vitas Hospice, with special recognition to his aide, Kristina, who helped to make his final days peaceful and comfortable. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Calvary Baptist Church in Jim's memory.