Omar H. Shepard Jr

Omar Halsey Shepard, Jr. "Shep" died peacefully at his home on Saturday, December 20, 2014 at the age of 82, succumbing to his seven year battle with pulmonary fibrosis. Shep is survived by his wife of 59 years, Shirley May Shepard; his son Todd, wife Paula and their children Abby and Zack; his daughter Piper and her fiancAC. Craig Dietz of Baltimore, MD who are to be married Saturday; and his grandson Ryan, Todd's son, of North Windham. Shep and Shirl suffered the heartbreaking loss of their son Scott. He was born in Bridgeport and attended Central High School. Upon graduation from the University of Connecticut, Shep attended UCONN Law School in Hartford and graduated number one in his class. Recognized as a leading attorney in the area, he "semi-retired" in 2012 celebrating 57 years of practicing law. Shep was reluctant to retire, concerned about leaving his clients who were dependent upon him. To provide a comfortable transition for his clients, he joined the firm of Barlow & Murphy in Manchester and served Of Counsel. Shep was a member of the Willimantic Country Club (now the Golf Club at Windham) for 58 years. He was a competitor and loved the game of golf and the lifelong relationships he developed at the club. He also enjoyed playing Bridge and walking the trails in Columbia. He was active in community affairs during his career, serving as President of the Exchange Club, Chairman of the Blood Drive, and a member of the Ionic Lodge 110 A.F. & A.M and Jaycees. A memorial service will be held on Monday, December 29, 2014, at 11 a.m. at the First Congregational Church, Valley Street, Willimantic, CT 06226. Donations in lieu of flowers can be made to the First Congregational Church.