It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Ethel Jean Shepard, known to most people as DeDe. DeDe began as a childhood name. For 61 years she was DeDe Mitchell. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, who left us peacefully on August 24, 2026, at the age of 81. Born on July 18, 1945, in Johnson City, NY, DeDe dedicated her life to her family and her passion for hospitality.

DeDe was the beloved wife of the late Jerry Shepard, her partner for over 41 years whom she married in 2021. She leaves behind a loving legacy through her children: Michele Arcilesi and her husband Paul, Barbara Rohe and her husband Doug, John Mitchell and his wife Sherri, and Ronald L. Girard. She was adored by her grandchildren: Stephanie Gray and her husband Sean, Jamie Lyons and her husband Jimmy, Brandi DeMarr and her partner Richard, Lisa Rohe, Brandon Mitchell and his fiancé Autumn, Bret Mitchell, and Ronald M. Girard. DeDe also treasured moments with her great-grandchildren: Ollie Gray, Brynn Gray, Cody Stone, Alyssa Jager, and Layla Endres. She will be fondly remembered and deeply missed by a host of loving family and friends.

DeDe lived a life defined by strength, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to her family. As a single mother raising four children, she worked tirelessly to provide for them and give them the best life she could. For many years she worked two jobs, beginning her career in factories before eventually making her way into bartending.

Bartending became more than just a job for DeDe. It was the beginning of a new chapter in her life and ultimately led her to become the proud owner of her own establishment. Through hard work and determination, she built something of her own while continuing to raise and support four children.

DeDe fostered connections with everyone who walked through her doors. Known for her warmth and engaging storytelling, she built a world of camaraderie and friendship, where regulars felt like family. Her vibrant spirit and zest for life were matched only by her love for her children, who were the center of her life. She made many sacrifices for them and taught them the meaning of independence, resilience and perseverance - not simply through words but by the examples she set every day.

DeDe will be remembered for her strong spirit, determination, and as a self-made woman. A celebration of her remarkable life will be held at Connelly Funeral Home of Dundalk, 7110 Sollers Point Road. Family and friends can gather for public viewings on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM and again from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM. A funeral service will take place at the funeral home on Thursday, September 3, 2026, at 11:00 AM, followed by a graveside ceremony at Holly Hill Memorial Gardens, 10201 Bird River Road.

In lieu of flowers, donations in DeDe's memory may be made to the American Cancer Society.