Beatrice “Bea” Angela Shepard
Beatrice Angela Russo Shepard, 77, passed away peacefully on May 18, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. Born on September 5, 1948, she lived a life rooted in love, kindness, devotion, and unwavering compassion for others.
Known to many simply as “Bea,” she would probably laugh knowing her full middle name made it into print, as she famously never cared much for “Angela.” That sense of humor was one of the many things everyone adored about her, and even in her final days, she never lost the wit, humor, and spark that made her so special to those around her.
Bea was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, friend, and community member whose warmth touched everyone fortunate enough to know her. She dedicated 15 years of service to Roxbury Central School, where she was far more than an employee. She was deeply loved, appreciated, and cherished by students, staff, and families alike. Her caring heart, gentle nature, and ability to make others feel seen, welcomed, and valued left a lasting impact on countless lives. She had the patience of a saint and was one of the strongest women anyone who knew her had ever met, facing life’s challenges with grace, resilience, humor, and unwavering love for her family.
She shared a beautiful love story with her husband, John Shepard, whom she married in 1987. Together, they built a life filled with laughter, loyalty, and unconditional love, a relationship many admired and aspired to have. They were true soulmates who adored one another through every season of life. Together, they shared a beautiful daughter, Raina, who was deeply loved and brought immense joy to their lives and family.
Bea is survived by her devoted husband, John Shepard; her loving daughters, Donna Marsh of Prattsville, Sandra Nilsen of Staten Island, Kristine Nilsen Sola (Ray) of Staten Island, and Raina Bonne (Matthew) of Margaretville; her brother, Ralph Russo Jr. of New Jersey; her beloved grandchildren Glenn Traver (Allie), Amanda McKay (Ryan), Joseph Flack, Justin O’Malley, Alexis Marsh (Corey), Leif-Tayler Marsh, Evan Otten, Nicholas Nilsen, Brendan Nilsen, and Dylan Sola; along with many treasured great-grandchildren, extended family members and dear friends.
She was predeceased by her mother, Mary Achille Russo; her father, Ralph Russo Sr.; and her sister, Marie Russo.
Bea found beauty in life’s simple moments. She had a true green thumb and loved caring for her indoor plants, filling her home with warmth and life. She found peace and comfort in birds, but especially cardinals, which she lovingly collected throughout the years and always felt held a special meaning. The ocean was one of her happiest places, bringing her serenity and joy. She adored animals and had a heart that naturally made room for every creature in need of love. She loved cheering on the New York Mets and could often be found listening and dancing to Elvis Presley songs with a smile on her face. Above all else, she treasured time spent with her family, creating memories filled with warmth, laughter, teasing, music, and unconditional love.
Those who knew Bea will remember her for her incredible sense of humor, generous spirit, nurturing heart, quiet strength, and the way she made people feel instantly at home in her presence. Her laughter and love filled every room she entered, and even during difficult times, she found ways to make others smile. Her love lives on in the family she cherished so deeply and in the countless lives she touched throughout the years.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Bea’s memory to where she found her beloved dog, Eddy, whom she often referred to as her ‘guardian angel.’ Through many of life’s hardships and challenges, Bea believed Eddy brought her comfort, strength, and unconditional love when she needed it most.
Donations may be made to Heart of the Catskills Humane Society, in Delhi NY, honoring her lifelong love for animals.
She will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.
There will be a celebration of life to honor Bea’s life in the near future and dates will be shared soon.