Matilda Shepard

Age 82, went to be with the Lord on April 1, 2011. Matilda was born March 26, 1929 in Stratford, OK. She was the oldest of 4 children, born to Reuben and Hattie Lairson. The family moved to Phoenix when Matilda was a senior in high school. Matilda married Elbert John Shepard on June 1, 1947. She was preceded in death by her brother, Bill Lairson and her husband of 62 years (7/27/08). She is survived by their 4 children: Dwayne (Luci), Deborah (Don) Diller, Diane (Wendell) Gist, and Deeon; sister, Bea Casselman; brother, Bob Lairson; 8 grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren, many nieces and nephews, and countless extended family and friends. Matilda and Elbert were members of Northgate Church of Christ. Matilda will always be remembered by her unconditional love for family and all she met. Visitation will be 5-8 PM, Wednesday, April 6 at Chapel of the Chimes Mortuary, 7924 N. 59th Ave., Glendale. Funeral services will be 10:00 AM, Thursday, April 7 at the funeral home. Interment will follow at Resthaven Park Cemetery, Glendale. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Copper Basin Bible Camp or Hospice of the Valley.