Julia Marie Sheppard

Julia Marie Sheppard, a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 31, 2025, in Kalamazoo, Michigan. She was born on November 15, 1945, in Highland Park, Michigan, and lived a life filled with love, commitment, and service to her community and family.

Julia's legacy is cherished by her children, Stephanie (Chad) Clark and Sarah (Derek) Tufts, who carry forward the strength and compassion she instilled in them. Her grandchildren, Sam Clark, Ryan (Emily) Clark, Libby (Matt) Wieczorek, and Joshua Tufts (Abby Brower) will forever hold dear the golden memories created during their time with her. Additionally, she took great pride in being a great grandmother to Luke Wieczorek and Calvin Clark, showering them with affection and wisdom in every moment spent together.

Her ties extended beyond immediate family; she was a loving sister-in-law to Dan Murtha (Charles Ragen) and an adoring aunt to Katie Murtha, Claire Murtha-MacDonald, and Molly Murtha-MacDonald. Julia’s bond with her many cousins, nieces, and nephews helped weave a rich tapestry of support and love that enveloped those fortunate enough to call her family.

Throughout her life, Julia championed the values of community service and cooperation. She was a proud member of various organizations, including the United Auto Workers (UAW), the Allen Park Democratic Club, the Allen Park School Board, the Kiwanis Club of Allen Park, and the PTA for Allen Park Schools. Julia's dedication and determination often shone through her proudest accomplishments, including her successful completion of cancer treatment, which she faced with unwavering courage and resilience.

After working at Ford Motor Company for a number of years, she quit her job to attend the University of Michigan where she earned a degree in Early Education and she worked at a Head Start Teacher, where she touched the lives of many students.

Though she is now reunited with her late husband, Samuel Sheppard, her sister Pamela Berry, and her parents Joseph and Eleanor Berry, her indomitable spirit will continue to inspire those who knew her.

Julia will be remembered for her warmth, her compassion, and her dedication to her family and community. Her memory will live on in the hearts of her loved ones, who gather to honor her life during a series of visitations and services. The first will be held on August 3, 2025, at The Allen Park Chapel - Martenson Family Of Funeral Homes, from, 3:00 pm until 9:00 pm followed by a prayer service at 6pm. Another visitation will take place on August 4, 2025, at St. Frances Cabrini Catholic Church, from 9:30 am until mass begins at 10 am. 

In honoring Julia's remarkable journey and the profound impact she had on those around her, we are reminded of the love and strength she gifted to us all. May her legacy of kindness and community spirit continue to inspire us as we carry her memory forward.

Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Julia to the American Cancer Society or to the American Diabetes Association. 

"A mother's love for her child is like nothing else in the world. It knows no law, no pity. It dares all things and crushes down remorselessly all that stands in its path." - Agatha Christie.