April 05, 2025
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Janice “Jani” Shepherd

Creston

Janice Shepherd, 78, of Creston, died Sunday, June 4, 2023. (Contributed )

Janice “Jani” Yvonne (Stuart) Shepherd, 78, of Creston, entered eternal rest Sunday, June 4, 2023, surrounded by her family.

Jani was born June 18, 1944, the daughter of Avery William and Alma Lucille (Johnston) Stuart in Lenox. Jani graduated from Lenox High School and married Gary Shepherd. Together they had four children, Eric, Corena, Mark and Mannie. She attended SWCC and Northwest Missouri State University earning a bachelors degree in the field of human services.

Jani worked many careers including domestic violence coordinator, graphic artist and her most rewarding job, driving a school bus for the Creston School District, where she cherished her interactions with the children throughout the years. Jani loved gathering around a table, visiting and playing cards with her many friends. Jani adored traveling with her family, playing games on her computer, camping and collecting little knick-knacks which she loved to show off and talk about. She treasured her many pets throughout the years.

Jani is survived by her children: Corena Shepherd, Mark (Erika) Shepherd and Mannie (Shannon) Shepherd, all of Creston; 10 grandchildren: Braydon, Kyle, Victoria, Levi, Jenna, Jesse, Konnar, Abigail, Avery and Emma; 11 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. Jani is also survived by her sister-in law, Dorothy Graham Stuart of Creston and many friends whom she considered family.

Jani was preceded in death by her parents, Avery, Alma and Orville; her oldest son, Eric Shepherd; her siblings: Bill, Bob and George Stuart; best friend, Betty Westlake and her sisters-in-law, Wileen Seeley, Sandie Stuart and Joyce Hogue.

She will be remembered for her stubbornness, witty comments, unconditional love, loyalty and sympathetic ear.

A celebration of life will be held at 11:30 a.m., Saturday, June 10 at Pearson Family Funeral Service & Cremation Center. Rev. Jim Morris will officiate. The family will receive friends from 10 – 11 a.m., prior to the service on Saturday. Jani will be laid to rest in Graceland Cemetery in Creston at a later date. A luncheon will be provided at the Eagles immediately following the celebration of life.

Memories and condolences may be left online at www.pearsonfuneralhomes.com.