Evelyn M. Sheppard

Evelyn M. (Ortega) Sheppard, of Placentia, California, formerly of Huntington Park, South Gate and Brea, CA, died peacefully in her sleep on July 7, 2023. Born November 13, 1929, she is predeceased by her parents Emilio C. and Mary Magdalene (Bustamante) Ortega of Huntington Park, CA, her late husband of 41 years, Melvin J. Sheppard of Brea, CA, son Michael of Atlanta, GA, and sister Emily of Brea, CA. Evelyn is survived by her daughter Susan (George) Fisher of Wesley Chapel, FL; son John (Nannette) of Cypress, CA; four grandchildren Scott, Phillip, John Jr, and Michael; one great-grandchild (Fredrick); and four nieces and nephews. Evelyn went to St. Matthias elementary school in Huntington Park and to Huntington Park High School. Evelyn worked in accounting for over 40 years. In retirement Evelyn traveled the world. Evelyn’s only sibling Emily was her best friend. She had three childhood friends that she met in kindergarten that had a huge impact on her life. Evelyn’s three friends Marge O’Leary, Billy Sanders and Claralee Griffin. Including Evelyn, these four friends were inseparable through the years and often traveled together and were simply much more than great friends. Evelyn was always proud of her California family history. The Ortega's, originally from northern Spain, have been in California for eight generations. Her great, great, great grandfather discovered San Francisco Bay as a scout for the Portola Expedition. She had relatives who are buried at 17 of California's 21 missions. The Ortega Highway in Orange County is named for her family and her father Emilio who founded the California-based Ortega Chili Company in the 1920’s and is still in grocery stores today. Evelyn was especially proud of the adobe house where her father Emilio, was born. This adobe is preserved as a historical site near the mission in Ventura, California. Being a Catholic was always an important part of Evelyn's identity. Her faith got her through difficult times and allowed her to look forward to again seeing her husband Mel, parents Emilio and Mary, son Michael, sister Emily and many good friends who left before her to the other side of life. Evelyn's life will be celebrated with a funeral mass on Wednesday July 19th at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Placentia, California at 10:30 am. She will be interred with her husband Mel at Riverside National Cemetery following the funeral mass. All questions should be directed to her daughter Sue at Cruella2u@verizon.net

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Evelyn M. Sheppard

November 13, 1929 - July 7, 2023