Lawrence "Joe" Joseph Sheppard, 61, of Springfield, passed away, on Friday, June 23, 2017.

Joe the son of Lawrence and Norma (Dameron) Sheppard, was born in Springfield, MO, on July 29, 1955. Joe and Debra (Leach) were married on August 23, 1975, they were privileged to share over 41 years together.

Joe retired as a locomotive engineer for BNSF after working for over 39 years on the railroad.  Joe was a faithful member, deacon, and servant in his church, Hillside Baptist.  He also served as president of Clear Creek Cemetery Board.  Joe enjoyed time with his family, but his grandchildren were the light of his life.  He will be fondly remembered and greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Joe is survived by his wife, Debbie of the home; one daughter, Melanie Ghan and husband Landon of Willard; grandchildren, Payden, Bryson, and Emma; two sisters, Vivian Ousley and husband Danny, Mary "Susie" Brown all of Springfield; mother-in-law, Barbara Leach of IL; nieces, nephews, other family and many friends.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents; one son, Brant Sheppard; and father-in-law, Charles Leach.

Visitation will be Tuesday, June 27, 2017 from 10:00AM until service time at Hillside Baptist Church, Springfield, MO.  Funeral services will begin at noon at the church with burial to follow at White Chapel Cemetery, Springfield, MO.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to St. Jude's Children's Hospital and may be left at Wilson-Griffin Funeral Home.