Steven Douglass Shepherd

Steven Douglass Shepherd, age 68, of Fort Walton Beach, Florida, passed away on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, at Ascension Sacred Heart Emergency Care-Emerald Coast, Steven was born on May 10, 1957, to Arthur L. Shepherd and Peggy L. Shepherd.

A proud graduate of Choctawhatchee High School, Steven loved school and never missed a day; even if he was not feeling well.

Steven retired from the Okaloosa School District where he had been employed for over 40 years as the Head Supervisor of Maintenance. Steven had started his Lawncare "S&S" Services a long time ago and was very dedicated to all his customers. At the time of his passing, Steven was also working part-time with a Janitorial Company in Niceville, Florida.

Along with his brothers, Steven began working with their self-employed father at an early age; they didn't have the luxury of hanging out after school or on the weekends. However, he never voiced any complaints; in fact, he would frequently express his happiness at having had that experience, which shaped him into a man of integrity, a guy with a mission, and a diligent worker.

Steven was a self-taught mechanic; he had a passion for working on cars. He loved working on anything with wheels, gear shifts, motors, et cetera. His fascination with cars began at a young age; he could identify the make and model of a car just by listening to its motor.

During his time in the hospital, Steven shared so many of his thoughts and good memories about all the good times, that he also wanted to make sure that we, as a family, continue to take care of one another. He also said, "Even though I worked long hours from a young age, I never regretted it, because I saw it as part of shaping me into the man I became".

Steven is survived by his wife of 30 years, Bobbie W. Shepherd of Fort Walton Beach; his mother, Peggy L. Shepherd; two devoted brothers, Mack Shepherd and Jerry Shepherd (Wanda); sisters, Deloris Bass (James), Deborah White (Kenny), Dot Paden (Wayne), JoAnn Reynolds and Shawn Kunamaeng; one paternal aunt, Lillie Mae Foley (James); a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends; two devoted brothers-in-law, Joseph Dukes, Wayne Paden; and friend-brother, Gary Watkins affectionately known as Butterbean.

He was preceded in death by his father, Arthur L. Shepherd, baby sister, Etta G. Phillips; and his devoted sister, Tutu (Mary E. Dukes); several aunts and uncles; and a special uncle, Dave.

Steven leaves behind a strong legacy, from his professional accomplishments to the deep family ties and the memories shared by those who loved him.

He will be missed by his wife and extended family and friends. His loving spirit, kind heart, and unwavering dedication will never be forgotten. 

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, August 22, 2025 at Beal Memorial Cemetery.