Obituary of Michael Joseph Sheppard

Born in Savannah, Georgia on December 26, 1951 and moved to the Columbia area as a child where he grew up.  He was the third oldest of five children.  He was a graduate of Cardinal Newman High School and after graduation he served in the US Army where he eventually retired as a staff sergeant in the 82nd Airborne.  After his military service he worked as a government contractor overseas in a variety of areas from Eastern Europe, Africa, and throughout the Middle East. Michael traveled the world serving his country in uniform, and as a civilian throughout his life.  He loved his family, loved to travel and enjoyed vacations at Hilton Head, SC and fishing every chance he got.  He passed away on March 15, 2021 at the age of 69 unexpectedly, due to complications arising after surgery while still working overseas.

He is survived by his daughter, April Sheppard of Raleigh, NC; a step daughter, Leslie Hash, a son, Ryan Michael Sheppard, and 3 grandchildren:  Brittany Hash, Hallie Leedy, Hayden Leedy of Leland, NC; 2 brothers:  Jimmy Sheppard of Gaston, SC, Jamie Sheppard (Debbie) of West Columbia, and 1 sister:  Marianne Brazell (Larry) of Laurens, SC; and many nieces and nephews.  He is preceded in death by his parents, James Ryan Sheppard Sr. and Jean O’Connor Sheppard and a brother, William Edward (Bill) Sheppard.