Mexborough and Swinton Times August 20, 1937

The Rev F.W.Shepherd

25 years vicar of Kilnhurst

The district learned with regret of the death on Friday, at the vicarage, Kilnhurst, and the Rev Frederick William Shepherd (72), vicar of Kilnhurst for the past 25 years.

He was inducted on May 12, 1912, and would have celebrated his Silver Jubilee on Coronation They this year had he not been gravely ill at the time.

He was the son of Rev Robert Shepherd, of Durham, and was educated at Durham Grammar School and Durham University.

The first phase clinical claim was in Canada where he spent eight laborious years as a missionary. The district of which he had charge covered a wide area, frequently great hardships had to be endured in execution of his duties.

Upon leaving candy proceed to France, where he spent another eight years as English Chaplain at Rouen, after which he returned to England to take charge of his father’s Parish in Durham.

He then became curate to the Rev H. E.Booty (who subsequently became Vicar of Tickhill) in the parish of Thornaby on Tees. He worked hard for the parish, being captain of the Church Lads Brigade, which was 100 strong, and the range services during the week for poor children of the parish who did not attend Sunday Cchool or Church.

On leaving Thornaby on Tees he became curate in charge of Rudby in Cleveland, North Yorkshire, after two years accepted the living of Kilnhurst, succeeding the Rev F.A.Bromley.

His interest in sport prompt him to side foot Jr football team some years ago, and he brought Teddy Ashton, now with Sheffield United FC, into sport. The 14 continue for many years until failing health compelled Mr Sheppard to cease his more vigorous activities.

For the last five years he has not enjoyed good health, and took to his bed for the last time six months ago.

He married whilst in Canada, and leaves a widow, sister and niece