Marcia Louise Shepard

Marcia Louise Shepard, beloved mother, grandmother, educator, volunteer, and faithful servant of Christ, passed away peacefully on Monday, June 1, 2026, just six days shy of her 85th birthday. She was 84 years old. Marcia was born on June 7, 1941, in Wichita, Kansas, to Paul and Beulah Blankenship. She grew up in Belle Plaine, Kansas, where she attended school and became known for her active involvement in school activities, her quick wit, and a touch of sass that would remain part of her charm throughout her life. In March of 1955, Marcia accepted Christ, beginning a lifelong journey of faith and service. One of her favorite childhood stories was from sixth grade, when she was cast as an angel in a school play. From that day forward, she often joked that she had been an angel since childhood—a comment shared with a smile and remembered fondly by all who heard the story. Marcia attended York College in York, Nebraska, and later earned her Bachelor of Science in Education with an emphasis in Social Studies from Oklahoma Christian College. During her college years, she served as a camp counselor at Silver Maple Bible Camp in Kingman, Kansas, where her love for children, faith, and service continued to grow. In September of 1968, at the encouragement of her neighbor, Marcia agreed to a blind date with a young man named Bill Shepard. What began as a simple introduction quickly blossomed into a lasting love story. By June 7th of 1969 (her birthday), Bill and Marcia were married and began building a life together. The newlyweds settled in Wellsville, Kansas, where they welcomed their daughter, Kristine “Kris,” in September of 1971. The family later returned to Belle Plaine, Kansas, where their son, Bradley “Brad,” was born in July of 1978. In February of 1979, the family moved to Buffalo, Missouri, where Marcia would spend the next several decades investing deeply in her family, church, schools, and community. While raising her children in Buffalo, Marcia worked as a substitute teacher and served alongside Dee Hamilton as a Camp Fire Director. She was actively involved in the Buffalo Church of Christ, where she taught Sunday School, led Vacation Bible School, and encouraged countless young people in their faith. In 1986, Marcia was chosen by Mrs. Genelle Spoering, the principal of Mallory Elementary, to pilot and lead the first Parents-as-Teachers program for the Dallas County School District. Together with Linda Brown and Sarah Oglesbee, they faithfully served many families throughout the county. Her work touched generations of children and parents and helped establish a foundation of support and education that continues to benefit families today. She retired in 2006 after twenty years of dedicated service. Retirement offered Marcia and Bill opportunities to explore the world together. They shared memorable travels to Alaska, Gatlinburg, Washington, D.C., New York City, and Pensacola, Florida. Marcia also enjoyed special trips with family and friends to Ireland, Arizona, and Michigan, creating treasured memories along the way. Most recently, Marcia could be found playing "Pitch" every Friday night with her dear friends the Oglesbees, Sandersons, Duffs, and Browns. Marcia's commitment to serving others never slowed. She was a tireless volunteer whose kindness and dedication earned recognition from Horses of Hope, Toys for Tots, The Haven, working the election polls in her local precinct, The Reading Buddies Program, and Dallas County Schools for her work as a kindergarten screener. Marcia was preceded in death by her parents, Paul and Beulah Blankenship, her brother, Jim Blankenship; and her beloved husband of 44 years, Bill Shepard. She is survived by her daughter, Kris and husband Christopher of Walnut Grove, Missouri; grandson Zach and his girlfriend, Courtlyn; her son, Brad and wife Amy of Nixa, Missouri; and grandsons Gracen, Kadyn, Braylen, and Landry. She also leaves behind her sister-in-laws, Carolyn Tomboli, Alice Erwin, Cindy Shepard and Jerry Shepard as well as many cherished cousins, nephews, nieces, and numerous dear friends whose lives were enriched by her love and friendship. Visitation will be held at Cantlon Otterness & Viets Funeral Home on Friday, June 5th from 6:00-8:00 p.m. with services being held on Saturday at 10:00 a.m. with burial at Memorial Gardens following the service. Marcia requested in lieu of flowers that donations be made to The Children’s Miracle Network at cmn.org. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Cantlon-Otterness & Viets Funeral Home, Buffalo.

Marcia Louise Shepard

June 7, 1941 - June 1, 2026