Nancy Shepard, 85

Nancy May Shepard of Charlo was born in Whitehall on May 18, 1941. On Aug. 9, 2026, she slipped away quietly surrounded by loved ones in Polson. She was ready to begin her next journey with awaiting family and friends.

Nancy lived most of her life in Montana, with brief stays in California and Wyoming. She spent most of her years in the Mission Valley.

Nancy married the love of her life, Donald Shepard, in 1970. They raised their children and many foster children on the family ranch here in the Mission Valley.

Nancy enjoyed art, music and her walker horses, and for those who knew her well, a shot (or so) of Fireball whiskey at night to help with the shakes of Parkinson.

When her sight and health started to fail, Nancy began a new chapter living in the Pines Assisted Lving in Polson. The family would like to extend a “Thank you” to the staff at the Pines for the kind and considerate care they provided Nancy in the years she was there.

Nancy is preceded in death by her parents, Walt and Mickey Smith; her husband, Don Shepard; daughters Angel Loyd and Patty Burland; great-granddaughter Kassie Halbert Nethercott; brothers Niles, Chuck and Cliff; and sisters Pat, Annette and Barbara.

She is survived by siblings Bruce, Ralph, Sandy, Earl and Wayne; her children, Darrel, Jim (Kim), Tracy (Richard), Wade (Traci), Donalee (Jeremy) and Kenny; 16 grandchildren and 32 great-grandchildren; and way-too-many nieces and nephews to mention.

At Nancy’s request, no service will be held. Cremation has taken place, and her and Don’s ashes will be spread on the family ranch Sept 20 followed by a celebration of life.

Messages of condolence may be shared with the family online at shriderthompson.com.

Arrangements are under the care of Shrider-Thompson Funeral Home.