South Bend – Penny Francine Shepard, R.N., affectionately known as “Grammy,” 82, passed away unexpectedly at home and peacefully took the hand of Jesus on August 31, 2026.

Penny was born on March 25, 1944, in La Porte, Indiana, to the late Francis and Billie Edgerton. She met the love of her life, Robert Michael Shepard, they married in 1974 and they shared many wonderful years together until his passing in 2001.

Penny was a woman of deep faith and attended Clay United Methodist Church. She was a graduate of Adams High School and continued her education at Indiana University South Bend, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in nursing. Penny dedicated many years of her career to Memorial Hospital, where she lovingly cared for patients in the Oncology Department. Her compassion and caring nature touched the lives of countless patients and families throughout her years as a nurse.

Penny’s greatest joy in life was her family. Her love language was simply being there for the people she loved, and she treasured every moment spent with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She will be lovingly remembered by her sons, Tom (Sonya) Shepard and Jason (Meranda) Shepard; grandchildren, Christopher (Jessica) Shepard, Cassandra (William) Smith, Corinn (Geoff) Nelson, Caroline (Will) Henry, Camrin (John) Arnold, Samantha Shepard, Kyle Shepard, Carter Bright, Grace Shepard, and Paisley Shepard; and great-grandchildren, Levi, Walker, Faelyn, Rayla, Callie, Georgia, Eleanor, Kate, and Emersyn.

She is also survived by her brothers, Thomas (Carol) Edgerton and Robert (Margie) Edgerton; along with numerous nieces and nephews, friends, and former colleagues who will miss her dearly.

Outside of her family and career, Penny had many passions that brought her happiness. She had a special love for cats and generously volunteered her time for many years with Pet Refuge, caring for animals in need. Penny also enjoyed curling up with a good book whenever she had the opportunity. She became was a proud Master Gardener and found great joy in nurturing her flowers and plants.

Penny leaves behind a beautiful legacy of love, compassion, faith, and service. Her family will forever cherish the memories they made with their beloved “Grammy,” and her gentle spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, September 5, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 noon, with the funeral service immediately following at 12:00 noon, all at Chapel Hill Funeral Home, Osceola, Indiana.

Penny will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband, Robert Michael Shepard, at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens in the Garden of the Last Supper, Osceola, Indiana.

Memorial contributions may be made in Penny’s memory to Pet Refuge. https://www.petrefuge.com/donate

Chapel Hill Funeral Home, Osceola, Indiana, has been entrusted with the arrangements.