A third-generation Floridian, John Sheppard was born in Lee County and graduated from Fort Myers High School and the University of Florida, where he earned his bachelor’s and law degrees. After serving two years in the U.S. Army, he joined his family’s Fort Myers law firm and became one of Southwest Florida’s leading estate planning attorneys.
He served as President of the Lee County Bar Association, chaired multiple judicial commissions, and consistently earned the highest Martindale Hubbell rating from 1965–1992.
Deeply committed to his community, John led organizations including the American Cancer Society and Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce, served as an elder in several churches, and was honored with the American Red Cross Humanitarian Award. A lifelong blood donor, he gave over 30 gallons since 1951.
In retirement, John published books, contributed to legal journals, and wrote poetry. He passed away in 2022, survived by his wife, Ellen, daughter Sandra, son Andrew, 11 grandchildren, and predeceased by his son John Jr. His legacy lives on through family and community.