I was born on October 16th, 1948, from the union of my parents Joseph Marion Shepard and Alberta Johnson Shepard.  I was the eldest of three girls- twin sisters, "Sibyl and Sylvia."  I departed this life on October 19, 2025, to be with the Lord and Savior.

My growing up years were a lot different than the outspoken person - people came to know, as I matured.  I was always a happy person and loved by all - I really loved my "mom and dad." Growing up I really believed in doing what I was told, because I really had such love and respect instilled in me for them and their friends.  Growing up on "Whittier St." was a pleasure, because I played with my sisters and childhood friend Linda Green.

I accepted Christ at the early age of "9" - with the encouragement of Mrs. Liona Anderson, a senior mother at Corinthian Baptist Church.  I was active in Sunday school, afternoon sessions, and in those days being placed in the care and cars of Deacons James Harris & Lawrence Gunnels to go to various outings.  I participated on the youth and adult usher boards, youth choir, and the Inspirational Choir when I was "16".  I loved and stayed committed to that choir for 54+ years.  I regularly participated in vacation bible school, I was the church clerk,and enjoyed attending bible class - I especially enjoyed receiving learning tools from Deacon James Byndon.  I represented the youth with Bernard Harris when we moved from Weherman Ave. to Whittier St. on the building committee.

I did "okay" in school - participated in GAA activities with my buddies Pat, Sandy, and Vickie.  When I started Withrow in the 8th grade - I was really shy.  You would have to deal with Pat or Sandy if you had a problem me - but issues rarely occurred.  I was blessed with long-term friends and friendships, both female and male.  Always trying to be a good friend or confidant when individuals sought me out.  I was an active participant with my schoolgirls and with Withrow's High School Class Reunion's for many years.

I met and married Theodia (Teddy) Johnson, in 1973 - we were blessed with two children; Tyrone and Tanisha and I gained two bonus daughters; Jenifer and Carolyn.  I longed growing up for brothers and I was blessed with six brother-in-law's (Sam, Roy, Robert, James, Edward and Melvin), they all treated me like the Queen Bee and I loved them all.  My in-laws Viola & James, gave me the name "country girl" and they were equally loving.  I loved that name whenever I heard it!  Through marriage, I gained special aunts Laverne & Iola and uncle Leonard and their spouses, I loved them so.

When I entered the corporate world, I was very young but I worked to do my best.  Over the years, I developed wonderful bonds with management and coworkers; they all called me "DJ," I later retired from P&G after 30+ years of service.  I later reentered the work force at 5/3rd Bank, I equally made bonds to last a lifetime and was affectionately known as "Ms. Danise" and I was still actively working.

I loved to play cards, Bid Wiz, poker, and dance before my knee started playing tricks on me.  I hosted gatherings for family and girlfriends, when getting together.  I enjoyed my extended family from Corinthian:  The Sams, McCoys, Lewises, Wilson, Maxie, Byndons and so many more.  I loved to cook - especially Macaroni & Cheese (my mom's recipe) and set a table and spread for all.  I often reflected and said, I was really blessed to have so many good people in my life - Mother Katherine Busch & Family; Mother Roberta Maxie, The Thompson-Bolton-Rox Family, and other seniors that I looked up to and respected. My First Lady Connie Smith, Raye & Jerry Cosby and Caol Hornsby-McCoy will always be special to me .  My sisters Sibyl & Sylvia I loved - I would hurt you if you knowingly messed with them - I was their protector.  I loved my cousins on the Simpson and Bryant sides.

Preceding me in death, was my son Tyrone (Chquondria).  I will miss my daughter, Tanisha, my bonus children Jenifer (Robert), Carolyn (Val), and JacQuita.  My grandchildren:  Tyerra, Zoey, and Kamdyn.  My Sisters; Sibyl and Sylvia; my god-children Kimmie, Kelley, Andre, and Aya.  My brothers' & sister-in-law's , my Shepard & Johnson nieces & nephews, great nieces & nephews, cousins, bonus grandchildren, church kids, and life-long friends.

What a blessing from God the life I live! Period.