Bethalto,
Arthur Lynn Sheppard, 87, passed away at 9:54 a.m., Wednesday, July 27, 2016, at Integrity Healthcare in Wood River, with his family by his side.

Born April 25, 1929 in Hammond, Indiana. He was a son of the late Theodore C. and Ruth Ella (Osbourne) Sheppard.

December 31, 1949, Arthur and the former Izola Lee Thompson were married in Alton. They shared 67 years together and as her life continues, she will truly miss him.

Arthur was a veteran of 4 years in the Army Air Core that became the Army Air Force while serving his tour.

He attended Shurttleff College in Alton.

A student of life, he loved history, it was like a hobby for Arthur, he loved to visit museums of every kind including train museums. He loved air shows, fishing and took a special ride on an old T9 trainer airplane from WWII. His family have very fond memories of their many adventures.

Arthur was a member of the Bethalto Masonic Lodge # 406 and the Scottish Rites.

Besides Izola, he is survived by one daughter, Kathy J. Sheppard of Bethalto; one son and his wife, Gary L. and Dot Sheppard of Rosewood Heights; eight grandchildren, Amy Nolte, Keith Sheppard and Ashley, Michele Mock and Zack, Julie A. Swarringin and Mark, Rendy L. Sheppard and Amber, Jennifer Glowcheski, Jeremy Sheppard and Misty, Reanna Woolsey and Bill; 13 great-grandchildren; one sister and her husband, Mickey and Jack Drda of Englewood, Florida.

Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by two sons, Jerry and Larry Sheppard; Son-in-law, Jim Sheppard; one granddaughter, Carrie Dawn King; one sister; two brothers and best friend Bobby Krepps.

A memorial celebration of Arthur's life will begin at 6:30 p.m. Saturday, July 30, 2016 at Gray Funeral Home in Wood River where Masonic Services from the Bethalto Lodge will begin at 7:00.

Memorials may be given to the American Cancer Society