John Lyle 'Shep' Sheppard, 81, of Idaho Falls, died Sunday, March 5, 2017, at his home.  He was under the care of Encompass Home Health and Hospice.

John was born on June 28, 1935, in Lewisville, Idaho, to Archie John and Mable Casper Sheppard. He grew up in the Lewisville area until he was about 12, then the family moved to Pocatello; they returned to the Rigby area so John would be able to graduate with his friends. He graduated from Rigby High School in 1953. He then went to Auto Body schooling.

He joined the United States Navy, where he served on the U.S.S. Prichett.

On March 4, 1961, he married Jacquelyn Ann Mitchell. They were later divorced. He married Judy Hunting Denning on May 2, 2003, in Jackson, Wyoming.

He worked for Insulation & Housing, he then started working for Smith's Chevrolet. He started Falls Auto Body and The Wheel Straightener.

John was a member of Coed Civitan and The Elks Lodge.

He enjoyed fishing, hunting, motocross racing, participating in golf tournaments, snowmobiling and camping at Gale Sheppard's on the river. He enjoyed anything outdoors, but to spend his time with family and friends was what he enjoyed the most.

He is survived by his wife, Judy Sheppard, of Ammon, ID; his son, Jeffrey Sheppard, of Idaho Falls, ID; his daughter, Michelle Sheppard, of Idaho Falls, ID; his grandsons: Joshua Sheppard, of Oro Valley, AZ and Tyler Allen, of Idaho Falls, ID; his brother, Glen Sheppard, of St. George, UT; his step-children: Mike (Peggy) Denning, of Pocatello, ID, Charlie (Natalie) Denning, of Phoenix, AZ and Debbie (Redge) Longhurst, of Idaho Falls, ID; many nieces, nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers: Gale, Clint and Rex; and three sisters: Shirley, Goldie and Barbara.

In lieu of flowers the family would like you to make a donation in his name to the Idaho Falls Humanitarian Center, 1415 North Gate Mile, Idaho Falls, Idaho 83401 or online at www.ifareahumanitariancenter.org

Services will be at 11:30 a.m., Tuesday, March 21, 2017, at the Ammon North LDS Stake Center, 4363 E. 17th Street, Ammon, with Drew Beasley officiating. The family will visit with friends from 11-11:30 prior to the services. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.coltrinmortuary.com .