Mildred “Milly” (Jackson) Shepherd of Rochester Hills, Michigan, passed away on Wednesday, December 6, 2023 with family by her. Mildred was born on August 15, 1927 in Martinsburg, West Virginia. She was the daughter of Herman and Virgie (Lyon) Jackson. She received an associate degree and was employed as a medical secretary when she met her future husband at Fort Detrick in Frederick, Maryland. Charles and Mildred were married on August 2, 1952. They were blessed to share 52 years together. Charles preceded her in death in 2004.
After several years spent as a wife, mother, and homemaker, Milly returned to work outside the home as a secretary at Anderson University. She retired in 1987. In addition to being a busy mom and secretary, Milly was an active member of Anderson First United Methodist Church, spending a great deal of time as a board member, a Next-to-New Shop volunteer, and as a Joy-to-us Sunday School class participant.
Milly volunteered in the community in a number of ways. Having survived breast cancer as a young woman, she used her experience to lift up others who were facing a similar challenge. She was a former County Coordinator for the American Cancer Society’s Reach To Recovery® program. Milly also served as a St. John Victoria Guild volunteer.
Milly enjoyed many community activities and hobbies including membership in the 20th Century Club and the Philanthropic Educational Organization (P.E.O.), as well as, playing bridge, reading, and traveling. Milly looked forward to any opportunity to spend time with family and friends.
Milly is survived by three children, Bryant Shepherd of Cocoa, FL, Stuart Shepherd (Michelle) of Rochester, MI, and Thomas Shepherd (Allyson) of Shorewood, Illinois; a sister, JoAnn (Jackson) Knode of Shepherdstown, West Virginia; three grandchildren, Matthew Shepherd (Wendy Contreras), Alexa Shepherd (Ahsan Mir), and Paige Shepherd; and two great-grandchildren, Camila Shepherd and Nico Shepherd.
She was preceded in death by her parents and husband, Charles R. Shepherd; a brother, Donald Jackson; and a sister, Eleanor (Jackson) Shanklin.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests those who wish to express sympathy to consider making a donation in Mildred’s name to the American Cancer Society or Anderson First United Methodist Church.
Friends may call from 10-10:45 am (EST) Saturday, December 16, 2023 at Rozelle Johnson Funeral Service of Anderson, Indiana. Funeral service at 10:45 AM (EST). Interment to follow at Anderson Memorial Park Cemetery.