Obituary

John Patterson “Pat” Shepard was born on May 13, 1939 in Lubbock, Texas. He grew up in Hale Center on the family farm east of town. While in high school, he was very active in 4-H – showing steers and serving on the State 4-H Council. He graduated from Hale Center High School in 1957 as the Salutatorian. He went to Texas Tech University to receive a bachelor’s degree in Animal Science where he enlisted in the ROTC and was a member of a National Champion Meats Judging Team. In 1961, after graduation, he continued his service in the Army by serving at the naval base in Norfolk Virginia during the Cuban Missile Crisis. After completing his military obligation, he went to Indiana to pursue an Animal Nutrition Master’s degree from Purdue University. While there, he met his bride, Roseanna Speer, whom he married in Tipton, IN in 1965 and returned to Hale Center, Texas where he joined his father, Grady Shepard, in building up a commercial feedlot business, Shepard Feedlot, which operated for over 36 years. He remained in the cattle feeding business for another two decades until his retirement. Shepard Feedlot was one of the pioneers in the cattle feeding industry in Texas.

In 1998, Pat was proud to receive the Texas Tech University College of Agricultural Science Distinguished Alumni Award. He served approximately 10 years on the Hale Center School Board and was happy to hand diplomas to each of his children. One of his more enjoyable services to the community, which he held for many years, was serving on the Stock Show Board and as a Beef Superintendent for the Plainview Parade of Breeds. The delight of his elder years was attending the activities of his six grandchildren and spending time with family.

He was proceeded in death by his mother and father, Grady Shepard and Gladys Patterson Shepard. He is survived by his sister, Sarah Bobo of Houston, his wife, Roseanna Shepard of Hale Center, and his children, Rosemary & Michael Peggram of Olton, Patti & Randy Mandrell of Lubbock and Cade & Kiesha Shepard of Hearne. He has 6 grandchildren: Kyle and Meghan Peggram of Abilene, Katelyn Peggram of Olton, Brady & Wyatt Mandrell of Lubbock, Cale & Zane Shepard of Hearne.