This memorial website was created in memory of our loved one, Franklin R. Sheppard III, 28, born on October 13, 1988 and passed away on October 22, 2016. We will remember him forever.
Franklin R. Sheppard III
Franklin R. Sheppard, III ("Frankie"), age 28, passed away suddenly on October 22, 2016. Frankie was born on October 13, 1988 in Point Pleasant, NJ to Franklin R. Jr. and Mary Ann Sheppard. He attended both Lacey Township High School in Forked River, NJ, and Walkersville High School in Walkersville, MD. He was a gifted soccer player, aspiring boxer, and accomplished physical trainer and fitness instructor, who positively impacted the lives of many. Frankie dedicated his life to helping others succeed, including working extensively with children to build self-esteem and self-defense capabilities. He will be remembered for his passion and gifted ability to motivate others in a positive, constructive, and enjoyable manner. Frankie will always live in the lives of the people who knew and loved him.
Frankie is survived by his mother Mary Ann Sheppard; his father Frank Sheppard and his companion Christine Gelles; and his brothers, Michael and Mark. He leaves his grandmothers, Margaret Rudewicz and Patricia Sheppard; his aunts, Margaret Beach, Tammy McGarrigan, Holly Sheppard and Shannon Maxwell; his uncle, Sean Sheppard. He also leaves many, many dear friends whose lives he touched, and many other family members. He is predeceased by his grandfathers, Edward J. Rudewicz and Franklin R. Sheppard, Sr.
A viewing will be held on Friday, October 28, 2016 from 10am until 12pm at Bugbee-Riggs Funeral Home, 335 S Main St., Barnegat. A Funeral Liturgey will be held at 1pm at St. Mary's RC Church, 747 W. Bay Ave., Barnegat. Family and friends are encouraged to bring pictures and memories of Frankie. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider donating to benefit youth programs at Bowerhouse Academy, 7311 Grove R. Suite D, Frederick, MD 21704.
Memorial by Bowerhouse Academy, Frederick, MD
We are going to hold a night of recognition and memorial for Coach Frank Sheppard this Sunday night, October 30 at 6pm at Shuckin' Shack Oyster Bar located at 41 S. Market St., Frederick MD 21701. Frank's father will be there and I know it will be more than wonderful for him to hear just how much his son changed everyone's life for the better.
This will be a time for everyone to sign an amazing memorial that Bowerhouse's own and Frank's student, Lauren Noll made from scratch. Thanks, Lauren! It will be a time for all of us to take the time to stand up, tell a story or whatever they want to say in honoring Coach Sheppard. He was a real fighter and all real fighters have chaotic souls, but Frank had the gift to put everything aside and change people's lives for the better, no matter what he had going on in his personal life. He worked relentlessly to better those with physical and mental disabilities, especially when it came to children in need and in empowering women.
Please come and join us in remembering and honoring such a great soul that is Coach Frank Sheppard. All of us, no matter who has any trivial problems with others in the past, let this be a night where we can all come together FOR Frank! He deserves it. His heart and soul deserves it and we owe him at least that. We look forward to seeing you all there. Thank you for your support.
People say that after the greatest loss, the loss of a child, you will find a new normal.
The way I see it, the new normal is a loss that becomes part of who you are. Missing you Frankie, is so constant that it has grown to be included in my identity.
I miss talking to you, your energy, your keen insight into human behavior, and being close to you. I miss you everyday with every cell and fiber in my body. You are always missed and loved.
This is the new normal.
No words I write can ever say, how much I miss you everyday.
As time goes by the lonliness grows, how much I miss you, nobody knows.
I think of you in silence, I often speak your name.
But all I have are memories and a photo in a frame.
No one knows my sorrow. No one sees me weep.
But the love I have for you, is in my heart to keep.
I've never stopped loving you - I know I never will.
Deep inside my heart, you are with me still.
Heartaches in this world are many, but this is worse than any.
My heart still aches as I whisper low,
"I love you and miss you so."
The things we feel so deeply are often the hardest to say.
But I just can't keep quiet anymore, so I'll tell you anyway.
There is a place in my heart, that no one else can fill.
I love you so, Frankie
... and I always will!
First birthday without Frankie. You will always be remembered, loved and missed. This photo perfectly captures your enthusiam!
Mom
