Donald Sheppard

Obituary for Donald Roger Sheppard, Sr.

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Donald Roger Sheppard, Sr. on March 9, 2025 after a battle with cancer. He was a loving Father, retired real estate developer, and friend to all whose lives he touched. He was 91.

Mr. Sheppard, or Papa, as he was known by those closest to him, was born in 1933 in Newington, GA. He graduated from Jacksonville University in 1958. He loved golfing, fishing, traveling, hunting, camping, walking on the beach and working in the yard. He was Episcopalian and for the past few years attended Chet's Creek Church.

Mr. Sheppard is survived by his son Donald Roger Sheppard, Jr. (Anna); daughters, Donna Fishback, Cynthia Mercer (Thomas) and Kim Balaskiewicz (James); grandsons, Andrew Mercer (Chelsea), Alex Mercer, Cody Mercer (Jasmine) and Luke Balaskiewicz; granddaughter, Madison Balaskiewicz; great grandson, Roman; and an extended loving family of nephews and nieces throughout South Georgia.

A memorial service for Mr. Sheppard will be held on Saturday March 29, 2025 at Chet's Creek Church, 4420 Hodges Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32224. Visitors may greet the family in the Worship Center beginning at 10:30 a.m., the Service will commence at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Spike Hogan officiating. Fellowship will follow the service.