Cody Ryan Shepherd

Cody Ryan Shepherd was known as many things to many people. He was a loved one, a friend, and someone special. To family and friends who knew him best, Cody will be remembered as a very exceptional person with a smile always on his face.

Cody was born on February 22, 1994 at Torrance Memorial Hospital in Torrance, California. He was the son of Todd and Karen Shepherd. Cody grew up in Carson, California; Rio Dell, California; and Las Vegas, Nevada.

Cody was raised with three sisters, two older sisters, Kara and Heather, and one younger sister, Pamela. Cody was usually involved in all sorts of activities with his siblings. He and his siblings experienced rivalries typical of a growing family, but they shared many laughs, smiles, and the occasional injury.

As a toddler, Cody played with his older sisters, Kara and Heather for hours on end. Between making mud pies, playing sumo wrestlers, and riding bikes they always had a good time. Eventually, Cody began playing and making up games with his younger sister, Pamela. Together, they would play video games, Legos, and even make up their own games.

Cody was an active boy who enjoyed kickball and playing outside with his sisters and dad. He was a Scout, who loved going on scouting trips with his dad, but his favorite camping experiences were with his entire family. In his spare time he liked to play video games, watch shows such as Spongebob Squarepants and Digimon, watch Major League Baseball, and watch movies with his family. Cody's memorable achievements included writing books and drawing. However, to Cody, the most fun to be had was simply playing and spending time with his sisters.

Cody graduated from Palo Verde High School with the exceptional memories of great friends, teachers, and experiences. Cody graduated a year early in 2011 with Honors. He enjoyed some classes more than others, having favorite subjects and teachers. His favorite subjects in high school were math and writing. The teacher he enjoyed learning from the most was Lorry Krystal.

Always considered a good friend to those he knew, Cody enjoyed a broad group of acquaintances and several very close friends during his lifetime. While growing up, some of his best friends were Nate Robinson, Zach Lenners, Kyler Doty, Baxter Wilde, and Chandler Yamane. Although Cody had his guy friends, he always shared a special bond to his three sisters Pamela, Heather, and Kara.

Fortunately, Cody enjoyed what he did for a living. Showing a strong work ethic, Cody worked diligently and did his best to succeed in his career. His primary occupation was writing. After years of writing and drawing, Cody achieved his dream and became a published author.

Cody enjoyed his leisure time by taking part in various hobbies. His favorite things to do were listening to music, watching his favorite movies and shows with his sisters and parents, writing, drawing, and going out to eat dinner.

Cody’s faith was important to him. Cody was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints. When possible, Cody and his family would diligently go through the process of getting ready early in the morning to be able to partake in Sacrament. Cody’s favorite part of church was being able to see everyone in their Sunday best, and greeting everyone at the door.

Cody enjoyed traveling and time away on vacations. It was a chance for him to get away from his usual scenery, to visit new places and experience new things. Favorite vacations included his Make-A-Wish train ride, the California trip to watch The Angels play, and his limited Disneyland trips.

Cody was a lover of animals and cherished his pets. One of his favorites was Gizmo the Chihuahua Terrier mix. They were best friends for 13 years. Once Gizmo passed, Cody began to find the love of cats and would cuddle with our household cat of 14 years, Alvin. While growing up, Cody had a special love for reptiles and other nonconventional pets.

Simply stated, Cody was an amazing person with a huge heart, an individual who will for all time be remembered by his family and friends as being a caring and giving person, someone who was a vital part of their lives. Cody leaves behind him a legacy of life-long friendships and many cherished memories. Everyone whose life he touched will always remember Cody Ryan Shepherd.

Cody passed away on April 8, 2019 at home. Cody fought a brave battle against Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. He is survived by his parents Todd and Karen as well as his three sisters Kara, Heather and Pamela. Cody was laid to rest in Palm Northwest Cemetery.