Ralph Douglas Shepard

Ralph Douglas Shepard, 76, of Alma, passed away Saturday, July 11, 2020 in Fort Smith. He was born July 6, 1944 in Fort Smith to C.R. and Pauline Shepard. Raised in Spiro and Fort Smith; he was a graduate of Fort Smith High School. He was a construction project manager and cabinetmaker for many years until he began working for MacSteel until his retirement. He greatly enjoyed planning to work in his shop and mowing an ever-expanding portion of his property in the years of his retirement. He was preceded in death by his parents; and a sister, Connie Fielder.

He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Carol Shepard; and a son, Stanley Shepard of Houston, who greatly cherished the years shared with him; and a brother, Larry Shepard of Van Buren. Of those that will miss him dearly, mention must be made of Isaac Davis, Ralph’s helper in later years who has ensured the continued lawn enlargement.

Funeral service will be 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, July 15, 2020 at Edwards Van-Alma Funeral Home Chapel with a private burial at Oak Cemetery in Fort Smith, under the direction of Edwards Van-Alma Funeral Home of Van Buren, AR.

Viewing will be from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Tuesday, July 14, 2020, at Edwards Van-Alma Funeral Home, 4100 Alma Highway, Van Buren, AR.