Phyllis Barbara Sheppard (Perry)

Phyllis B. Sheppard of Lewes, Delaware, passed peacefully on October 23, 2020, at the age of 79, in the care of Beebe Medical Center. Phyllis was born November 15, 1940, to the late Theodore and Naomi V. Perry, of Lewes, Delaware. She was one of ten children and learned the value of hard work early on in life. She helped tend to her younger siblings as they came along and showed them the ropes. Phyllis’s early education took place in a “colored school”, where she was taught reading, writing and arithmetic. In 1953, Phyllis started attending William C. Jason Comprehensive High School, where she gained knowledge in homemaking, art, politics and vocational trades. She was able to take those skills into the work force as a cook, daycare worker and a laborer. She was also a Certified Nursing Assistant at the Stockley Center, where she retired after 20 plus years of service. Phyllis was joined in holy matrimony to James “Bro” William Sheppard, Sr. They built a good life and created lasting memories. They would often sit and talk about life, while reading the paper, discussing the kids and day-to-day responsibilities. Phyllis was always cold and Bro was not. What a match they were. Phyllis, at the age of 40, took on a new role, “mom-mom”, a name she would cherish for more than 39 years. Phyllis spoiled her grandkids and great-grandkids over the years, because she liked putting smiles on their faces. On any day of the week, you would find her watching sports on television. Her favorite team was the Boston Celtics. She would give a holler if they were losing and making mistakes on the court. She loved game shows especially Super Market Sweep and Family Feud. During the summer, she would plan cookouts with her kids and grandkids. They enjoyed eating crabs and her famous sausage and pepper dish. She loved when her kids and grandkids would stop in with her favorites; The News Journal, Sprite, root beer barrels and hard candy. Phyllis was preceded in death by her parents and loving husband. Phyllis, in her sunset, leaves to mourn and cherish in her memories, her children, Prentice Perry (Georgia) of Harbeson, DE, Warren Perry (Theresa) of Bridgeville, DE, James William Sheppard, Jr. (Tornita) of Lewes, DE, Sonya Sheppard of Cool Spring, DE, Anthony Sheppard (Tyniece) of Cool Spring, DE, Zelda Sheppard of Millsboro, DE and Taniesha Sheppard of Cool Spring, DE; three brothers, Timothy Perry of Lewes, DE, Kevin Perry (Emma) of Dover, DE and Sherman Perry (Tina) of MD; four sisters, Margaret Ayers of Lewes, DE, Evelyn Johnson of Lewes, DE, Ernestine Coursey (William) of Lewes, DE and Jackie Weston of Lewes, DE; dedicated in-laws who always took time out to share memories and good laughs. She will be missed by all, especially her 18 grandchildren and a host of great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Phyllis Barbara Sheppard (Perry)

November 15, 1940 - October 23, 2020