Dr. James E. Shepard

Dr. James E. Shepard, M.D., F.A.C.P., beloved husband, father, grandfather, physician, traveler, and lifelong student of the world, passed away peacefully on May 19, 2026, at the age of 92.

Born in Franklin, NH, Jim combined a sharp intellect, deep curiosity, and gentle humor that stayed with him throughout his life. He shared 67 years of marriage with the love of his life, Sally-Jean Shepard, a partnership marked by enduring affection, shared adventures, and countless journeys together.

Dr. Shepard graduated from Tilton School, Tilton, NH; Wesleyan University, Middletown, CT; and Weill Cornell Medical College, NYC. His medical training began at Mary Bassett Hospital in Cooperstown, NY. He then served two years as an Army physician at Ft. Story, Virginia Beach, VA. Following his military service, he completed additional medical training at the University of California at San Francisco and went on to build a distinguished career in nephrology and internal medicine in Marin County.

Over more than six decades, Dr. Shepard became a respected leader in the medical community, serving as Chief of Medicine and Chairman of the Intensive Care Unit at Marin General Hospital. He helped establish one of the earliest dialysis programs in California. He was board certified in both internal medicine and nephrology. He was elected a Fellow of the American College of Physicians (F.A.C.P.) and later served as a clinical faculty member affiliated with UCSF. Following his years in clinical practice, he continued working as a medical consultant and expert witness well into his later years.

Outside of medicine, Jim loved travel, conversation, golf, tennis, and learning. He and Sally explored the world together for decades; maps in hand, curiosity leading the way. He was an Emeritus Life Member of the Mill Valley Tennis Club, where he enjoyed both the game and the friendships surrounding it.

Dr. Shepard is survived by his wife, Sally-Jean Shepard; daughters Sandy Shepard Wolfram and Elisabeth Shepard; granddaughter Leann McFalls; and great-grandsons Caleb and Cody McFalls.

In remembrance of Jim’s lifelong generosity and concern for others, the family suggests donations to local food banks in lieu of flowers.