Ronald L Shepherd

Ronald L. Shepherd of Massillon, OH passed away on February 12, 2026 surrounded by his family. He was born on August 3, 1942 in Canton, OH to the late Lawrence and Ruth E. (Orner) Shepherd.

He attended East Canton Schools and shortly after he was later drafted to the United States Air Force. Due to physical hardship, he was unable to serve. He returned home and started a dedicated career with The Timken Company as Security where he remained until his retirement.

Ron loved golfing and bowling with his family. He was a lifelong woodworker who took great pride in things he crafted by hand in his workshop. Ronald also had a passion for cooking and baking, never making the exact same dish and always ensuring there was plenty to share. Known for his humor and storytelling, Ron had a way of drawing people in-whether through a joke or a well-told story, he was often the center of attention.

Ron is preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Terry and Larry Shepherd, and his previous wife Linda Shepherd; son-in-law, Jim Starkey.

Those left to cherish his memories are his beloved wife Patricia Shepherd; sisters, Nancy (Jim) Rainsberger, Francie (David) Seaman, Lynn (Wayne) Bessell; brothers, Donald (Shelly) Shepherd and Jerry Shepherd; the mother of his children Helen Thornberry; daughters, Lori Starkey and Jill (Mark) Ott; son, Jacob Umstead and step-sons Matthew Eddleman and Eric Russ; step-daughters, Marissa (Shaun) Armstrong and Emilee Wells; grandchildren; Jeremy (Alexa) Starkey, Haley (Joshua) Cockerham, Nate (Ellen) Ott, Noah (Abby) Ott, Gatlin, Liam, Lainey, Eason, Elijah and due in April-Evie; great-grandson, Jack; and many nieces and nephews.

Ron’s children, grandchildren, and great grandson meant the world to him and put the biggest smile on his face. He enjoyed seeing what was happening in everyone’s lives. In person, he would cater to their every want and need. Papaw never said no. In return, the kids helped give him the strength to carry on. There’s no love like a Papaw’s love for his babies. He will be deeply missed.

The family would like to personally thank all the doctors and nurses that provided care to him especially over the past four months. The staff loved him and he loved them equally. Trish would like to thank everyone for all the love, prayers, visits, cards and support as it has been quite a journey.

Friends and family may pay their respects on Wednesday, February 18th, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Sanders Funeral Home, 218 E. Nassau St., East Canton, OH 44730 with a funeral service to follow at 11:00 a.m.. Interment will take place at Kountze Memorial Cemetery after the service.

Arrangements are entrusted to Sanders Funeral Home, 218 E. Nassau St., East Canton, Ohio 44730. Family and friends may offer condolences and share memories at:

sandersfuneralhomes.com

(330) 488-0222