Our family and community lost Anne K. Shepley of Mattapoisett on September 24, 2021. She was the best friend and wife of James M. Shepley, who passed away in 2011. Together they raised five children- Kyle, Heather, Jamie, Jennifer and Andy.
Anne was born into a large, loving family of seven children residing in Rumford, R.I. Richard, Kenneth, Nathalie, Virginia, Phyllis, Anne and Avis had many adventures that she recounted with much laughter. Her close-knit bond to younger sister Avis and sister-in-law Shirley remains to this day.
After graduating from East Providence High, Anne completed her course of study at Bryant College and worked as a legal assistant in downtown Providence. She was quite independent and proud of it. Anne married Jim “Shep” Shepley September 17, 1955 and began their family. They settled in Mattapoisett in 1967.
Anne was devoted to the church they loved, the Mattapoisett Congregational Church, and instilled a deep love of God and spirit of service in her family. She ran and taught the children’s bible school, vacation bible school and served on many church committees. She ensured all her children were involved in some aspect of service.
Through the church and many other clubs and activities Anne supported the community of Mattapoisett. She loved the fellowship and friendship of the Woman’s Club. Anne enjoyed making her signature flower festooned May wine punch for the annual luncheon. Anne loved nature and gardening which she passed on to her children and grandchildren. She was always teaching and showing by example. Her service as president and active member of the Garden Club was a perfect fit. Anne enjoyed maintaining the many town gardens, decorating the Town Hall, Library, Post Office and Church. She got great joy and satisfaction from beautifying the town she loved with her garden group and dear friends. Anne was always there with a smile, a bright idea and a cheery attitude. She made things happen.
Anne was an avid reader and participated in several book clubs. She loved creating a themed meeting reflecting the book. Her love of books and the magic that lies within those pages was passed down to her large, extended family. Distant family members would even call in to participate in her book club meetings.
Anne and Shep loved to travel the world and would organize trips with friends old and new. As their children grew older, they often accompanied them on these trips. Their love of adventure was infectious and resulted in priceless memories.
Anne was steadfast in her faith and had boundless love for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchild. She loved nothing more than sitting on the beach with her feet in the water watching them frolic on the sand bars trying to catch minnows. Anne’s life revolved around Family, Faith and Friends. She taught us all so many valuable life lessons. A life well lived.
A memorial service will be held Saturday 23 October 2021 at 11:00 AM at the Mattapoisett Congregational Church. Anne loved flowers but a more lasting donation could be made to the Alzheimer’s Foundation or the Mattapoisett Congregational Church in her name. For an online condolence book, please visit www.saundersdwyer.com.
