Dorothy Jane Shepherd

Dorothy Jane Shepherd, of Gaylord, Michigan passed away peacefully at her home on December 6, 2024. She is preceded in death by her parents, Basil and Dorothy Thiel; sister, Marilynn Waldsmith; and husband, James Trudeau. Dorothy is survived by a brother, Charles Thiel; a son, Kevin O'Grady; daughters, Colleen Hathaway and Dorothy Barry; several grandchildren; nephews; and a niece. 

Dorothy was born in Detroit, Michigan and moved to Lewiston, Michigan full time in 1982. Dorothy was a member of the St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Lewiston, Michigan and sang with the church choir for many years. She dedicated her time as a board member for the Johannesburg Lewiston High School for 15+ years. Dorothy's community was extremely important to her; volunteering for many community organizations including Habitat for Humanity and the Lewiston Chamber of Commerce. She enjoyed her involvement in Lewiston's Timberfest and winter festivals, Fun One's Snowmobile Club, and Lewiston's annual car show. 

Dorothy enjoyed surrounding herself with family and friends, creating treasured memories. She loved hosting get-togethers, a time when Dorothy was known for her outrageous pranks. No one was immune to her shenanigans. Birthday cards were always filled with confetti that you were picking up for weeks. Trips with Dorothy included finding your underclothes missing and finding fake snakes and spiders where you least expected them. 

The family expresses their deepest gratitude to The Brook of Gaylord, Michigan for the exceptional care and comfort they provided to Dorothy. As an expression of sympathy, donations may be made to the University of Michigan Stargardt and Associated Disease Gift Fund #324027, University of Michigan, 3003 S. 8th Street Ste 8000, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109 or umich.edu/giving/