Melva Joanne (McClaughry) Shephard

Melva Joanne (McClaughry) Shephard, 88, of Woodstock, died Saturday, April 28, 2018 at home peacefully surrounded by her family. She was born on September 25, 1929 in Meadville PA to Joseph and Hettie May (Miller) McClaughry. She married Edward Eugene Shephard on June 22 1952 in Berkley CA.

Melva and her family moved from Meadville when she was an infant to Lancaster, CA where she spent her childhood until she went off to college at the University of California, Berkley. She graduated with honors with a degree in Microbiology. While in college she met the love of her life Edward Eugene Shephard (Gene). Gene and Melva were married for almost 59 years.

Melva was an avid reader, constant and life-long learner. She enjoyed being engaged in thoughtful conversations with her children and grandchildren. She fulfilled her dream of a life of adventure after she and Gene married. They lived for 4 years in Ioninna Greece, made numerous trips to Mexico, as well as to New Zealand, Australia, Switzerland and most of Europe. While living in Greece, Melva homeschooled all 3 of her children. She never returned to her real passion of science but worked full-time in administrative positions until her retirement in 2001.

She is survived by her children, Rebecca Shephard, Steve Shephard (Debbie) and Amy Swanson (Scott); 5 grandchildren, Elizabeth Jordy, Taylor Shephard, Samuel Shephard (fiancé, Colleen Shuda), Marta Haight (John), Bjorn Swanson and one great-grandson, Jeremiah.

She was preceeded in death by her parents, Joseph and Hettie May (Miller) McClaughry, husband Gene, her brothers Paul and Bob and sister Kathryn and grandson, Anders Swanson.

Melva donated her remains to the Anatomical Gift Association of Illinois.

A memorial gathering from 2:00 - 7:00 pm, will be held on Sunday, May 27, 2018, at 860 Serene Trail, Woodstock, Illinois.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to JourneyCare.org.

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