Daniel Odell Sheppard

Daniel Odell Sheppard, 65, passed away on December 24, 2025. Born on July 22, 1960, in Chicago, Illinois, Dan will be remembered as funny, loving, and kind—a man whose humor and stubborn streak were matched only by the depth of his heart. He had a way of lighting up a room with a well-timed joke, then grounding the moment with a sincere, “I love you,” words he offered generously and meant every time. Those who knew him knew a man who stood firm in his convictions, laughed easily, and loved fiercely.

Dan found joy in the everyday rituals that stitched his life to the people he cherished. He was a devoted sports fan, equally at home rooting for teams from Chicago and Tampa, savoring every season and every game-day conversation. He loved movies and music, the kind that turned a quiet evening into something shared—quoting favorite lines, cueing up a playlist, and drawing others in with a warm, easy enthusiasm. His humor put people at ease, his kindness made them feel seen, and his steady presence was a comfort you could count on. In the rhythms of family life, simple routines became memories because he was there, investing his full heart.

The center of Dan’s world was his family. He was a devoted husband to Donna Sheppard and a proud father to his daughter, Amber Charbonier, and her husband, Mario. He absolutely adored his grandchildren, who knew him as a loving, playful, steadfast presence. At home, the gentle companionship of Max and Bella brought him daily joy, another reflection of the tenderness he naturally extended to those around him. Dan’s humor, guidance, and unwavering loyalty created a sense of belonging that will continue to support his family in the days ahead.

Dan leaves behind a legacy best measured not in milestones, but in love—the love he gave freely and the love he inspired in return. His family and friends will carry forward his laughter, his stubborn hope, and his favorite words: “I love you.” In remembering him, may we honor the way he lived—by cheering a little louder for the people we love, sharing a favorite song or a good movie, and holding one another close. His spirit remains in the stories we tell, the smiles he sparked, and the bonds he helped make unbreakable.