Jospeh Benton Shepard

Joseph Benton Shepard passed away on July 2, 2025. He was born September 21, 1926, in Bristol, Tennessee. 

Joseph served in the Navy during WWII on the USS Texas. He worked as a fireman and policeman while in Bristol. He became an engineer for Raytheon and moved to California to work at the Oxnard Raytheon Facility and finally the White Sands Missile Range facility in New Mexico where he worked on the Patriot system. Joseph loved riding dirt bikes and competed in many Enduros, riding until he was 80. He loved fishing, camping, hiking, geocaching, and anything outdoors. On March 22, 1986, Joseph married Kathryn Purnell, and they enjoyed many adventures together. 

Joseph was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Jack Shepard; and his daughter, Susan Wood. He is survived by his wife, Kathryn; his son, Steven Shepard; his stepsons, Gary Pace, Reginald Purnell, and Torrey Purnell; son-in-law, Joseph Wood; grandchildren, Shawn Shepard, Stacy Shepard, Sara Shepard, Aaron Wood, Joshua Wood, Alena Pace, and Alyssa Pace. 

Joseph will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved him. 

The Shepard family has entrusted their loved one to the care of Alamogordo Funeral Home.

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