James “Jim” Everet Shepard, a resident of Beggs, left this world peacefully on July 11, 2025, at the age of 90. Born on March 16, 1935, in Okemah, Jim was the eldest of seven children. He was preceded in death by his wife of 25 years, Ann B. Shepard in 2007; his parents Ernest and Grace Shepard, brother Leon; sisters Ernestine Hudson and Morena Hodge. He is survived by brother John; sisters Ramona Cottrell and Aliene Jenkins.
He is also survived by two daughters, Deirdre Colwell of Sand Springs and Sandra Shepard of Beggs; three stepdaughters, Nancy and (Harold) Swart of Cary, Ill., Judy Scobey of Glenpool and Sheryl and (Mike) Pool of Sand Springs; grandchildren, Ashley Colwell, Shelby and William (B.J.) Boak, Coby Bruton, Deshawn Helvy, Austin Swart, Angela Maldonado, Erin Pierce, Sammie Jo and Sheridan Pool and Elizabeth Manley; great grandchildren, Krissy, Winter and Jakob Boak, David and Kayle Bruton, Dakota and Makala Helvy, Logan and Isabella Swart.
Jim is remembered by his family as a gentle man who enjoyed celebrating all gatherings, alway sending the day with a rousing game of farkle with ‘Shepard’ house rules. Most of Jim’s friends will remember him running his leases/wells, which was his passion, in the March 16, 1935 – July 11, 2025
oilfields of Oklahoma. Cowboy hat, boots and a western shirt was his signature attire. Always available to help others. A man of faith, he lived a life of strong moral character according to biblical principles.
A little known fact of his youth was that he was an award winning photographer. In 1953, during his time in the U.S. Army in Germany, he showed his talent as a photographer where he captured some beautiful landscape scenes.
He remained active in Oil and Gas Business Services. After retiring twice, he enjoyed time at the casino which was one of he and Ann’s favorite pastimes. In his retirement, if you were to drop by you would find him watching B&W Westerns. Always the simple man.
Friends and Family are welcome to join the family at Jim’s celebration of life Saturday, August 30, 2025, from 12-2 p.m. at Candlewood Suites, 219 S. Gateway Place W in Jenks. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Seasons Hospice through their website or 6532 E. 71st, Ste 100, Tulsa, OK on his behalf.
