Sylvia Shepherd

Sylvia Elaine Shepherd began her earthly journey in life on December 31, 1951, the daughter of Willie and Deloris Shepherd. On Friday, September 5, 2014 she gained her eternal wings and flew into the kingdom of Heaven.
Raised in Muskegon, Michigan, Sylvia was a graduate of Muskegon Heights High School where she ran track, served as Vice President of the Student Council, Senior Class Secretary and was crowned Homecoming Queen. In the class yearbook, she stated her "likes" as "smiling, being myself and just plain havin' fun." Her ambition was to "Take whatever life has to offer in stride, but not in strain." She moved to Lansing in 1976 with her two children, Janell and Jerell. Ever the athlete, Sylvia joined the Lansing Topspins Tennis Club. She began her employment with the State of Michigan in June of 1983 in the Office of Governor James Blanchard. She worked there until accepting an economic development position in the department of Commerce in October of 1985. In April of 1995 her agency was moved to the Michigan Jobs Commission where she remained until accepting a policy analyst position with the Department of Community Health Medicaid program in December of 1998. In July of 2002, she transferred to Community Health Behavioral Health Administration where she evaluated mental health programs. Finally in February of 2004 she accepted a position with the Community Health Children's Special Health Care Services Division where she served until her retirement on September 28, 2007.
After retirement from the State of Michigan Sylvia served as a Consultant for S & S Business Services, The Grounds Crew and later started her own company providing editorial services. She was an outstanding writer, but loved the opportunity to review the writings of others. She became a faithful member of the Tabernacle of David Worship Center (formerly Pentecostal Outreach) in 1999 where she devoted herself to ministry, praise and worship. Sylvia was a beloved daughter, mother, sister, aunt and friend whose wonderful presence will be truly missed.
Sylvia leaves to cherish her memory her beloved daughter, Janell (Neil) Wright; son, Jerell Shepherd and granddaughter, Miya Simmons; mother, Deloris (Roy) Malone; six brothers, Steven (Bonita), Maurice (Dolvina), Kenneth, Brian (LaDawn), Duane (Michelle) and Gary; one sister, Angela; an infinite number of nephews, nieces, relatives and friends whom she dearly loved.
She was preceded in death by her father, Willie Shepherd, one brother, Alan Shepherd and one uncle, Hiram Vaughn.
Visitation: Paradise Funeral Chapel Obituaries
Service Plans: Paradise Funeral Chapel Obituaries