Melanie Ann “Pumpkin” Shepherd, age 63, of Brookport, Illinois, passed away at 2:30 p.m. on Monday, October 19, 2026, at her residence, surrounded by her loving family.

Melanie worked for many years at Withers Broadcasting. She was a member of First Baptist Church in Brookport and the Harley Owners Group. She enjoyed riding motorcycles, especially her Harley 883 Custom, snorkeling, and spending time at the beach. Above all, Melanie had a deep love for animals.

She is survived by her husband of 47 years, James Lynn Shepherd; daughter, Melissa Ann Smarr and husband, Rick; son, Joshua Lynn Daniel Shepherd; grandchildren, Hannah Ashe and husband, Greyson, and Slade Jr. “BamBam” Jones; great-grandson, Greyson David Ashe, Jr.; sisters, Linda Fiser and Brenda Stewart; and several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

Melanie was preceded in death by her parents, Richard Daniel and Dorothy Dathel Henderson; sister, Debra Ann Bynum; and brother, Robert Henderson.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, October 24, 2026, at Loftus-McManus Brookport Funeral Home. Visitation will be held from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. on Saturday, October 24, 2026, at the funeral home.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Loftus-McManus Brookport Funeral Home. Online condolences may be shared at www.aikinsfarmer-millerfh.com.