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Jim Sheppard, 85, of Killingworth, passed away at home surrounded by his family on Aug. 5. Jim was an exemplary man. He was strong, kind, thoughtful, smart, and funny. He was the patriarch of a family that loved him beyond any words can explain.

Jim was born and raised at the southernmost point of the United States, Key West, Florida. He graduated from Key West High School and attended Florida State University, where he met the love of his life and best friend, Ginger. His service in the US Air Force and his career would lead them to many interesting places and create lifelong friendships along the way in Mississippi, Washington, Bermuda, Florida, South Carolina, and Illinois, before settling in Killingworth.

Jim had an entrepreneurial spirit and with his charm and perseverance, he was an exceptional salesman. His family always joked that he could sell ice to an Eskimo. Sales led him into the medical supply industry where he excelled, and he spent the majority of his career as president and CEO of Lawton Surgical Instruments and owner of J & S Medical Associates.

A man of many talents and interests, he played several sports through college and the Air Force. He was an avid golfer and played until recently as a long-time member at the Madison Country Club. Even in later years, he won many tournaments to the chagrin of many younger club members. Throughout his lifetime, he was very active in many different volunteer positions and community service organizations. In Killingworth he was involved with the Planning and Zoning Commission, the Republican Town Committee, and the Region 17 Board of Education where he served as chairman. He had a green thumb and created the most beautiful gardens around his home for his family and wildlife to enjoy.

His greatest pleasure was spending time with his family. Whether at home, on the sidelines at countless sports games, or at school functions, he was always our biggest fan and supporter. His presence will be greatly missed.

Jim will be deeply missed by his wife Ginger and his children Jeff Sheppard of Guilford (Pam), Elaine Sheppard of Deep River, and Amy Sheppard-Aronson (Rob) of Clinton. He will also be missed by his grandchildren Rob and James Aronson of Clinton, Ozzie and Ellie Sheppard of Deep River, Jason Sheppard (Julie) of Haddam, Justin Sheppard (Emily) of Oxford, and Meegan Sheppard (J.B.) of Huntington Beach, California; and his great-grandchildren Jaidan, Nolan, Bentley, Cooper, and Macie. He also leaves his lifelong friend and brother-in-law Way Plowman, and his extended family and countless friends. He is predeceased by his son Steven Sheppard (Elizabeth) and his siblings Edward and Betty Sheppard.

At his request, we will not be having calling hours. Friends are invited to join the family for a church service on Saturday, Sept. 8 at 2 p.m. at Christ Episcopal Church, 11 Park St., Guilford. We will also be having a celebration of his life on Saturday, Sept. 8 from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Madison Country Club, 8 West Wharf Rd., Madison. We invite everyone to come share food, drink, and memories with the family. Arrangements in the care of the Guilford Funeral Home, 115 Church St., Guilford. To share a memory or leave a message of condolence for the family, please visit www.GuilfordFuneralHome.com.