Danny J. Shepard

Danny J. Shepard, aged 78, of Dayton, Ohio, passed away on Sunday, March 29, 2026, while under care at Hospice. Danny was born on February 7, 1948, to the late William L. Shepard and Pluria Ruth (Sluss) Rayburg.

A devoted fan of the Cincinnati Reds and an avid baseball enthusiast throughout his life, Danny enjoyed traveling to various stadiums to attend games. He treasured his extensive collection of Lionel trains and baseball sports memorabilia. He was employed by General Motors/Delphi for over 28 years. During his tenure at GM, he was deeply involved in the sport of softball as a player, coach, and organizer. Following his retirement, Danny resided for several years in Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina, before returning to Dayton, Ohio, in late 2022. While in North Carolina, he was an active member of the Intercoastal Model Railroad club.

Danny was a proud graduate of the former Patterson Co-op High School in Dayton, Ohio, class of 1967, and earned his Bachelor’s Degree from Wright State University.

He is survived by his two sons, James T. (Rachael) Shepard and Scott M. (Jahn) Shepard; his significant other, Christina Gauthier; his two granddaughters, Emma J. Shepard and Elliot J. Shepard; his grandson, Ellis J. Shepard; and his stepsister, Charlotte Stamas. He was preceded in death by his mother, Pluria Ruth (Sluss) Rayburg; his father, William L. Shepard; his stepfather, Thomas "Tom" G. Rayburg; and his stepbrother, Thomas "Butch" C. Rayburg.

Visitation will be held on April 3, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., followed by the funeral service from 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Newcomer Funeral Home, Centerville, located at 820 Miamisburg Centerville Rd, Dayton, OH 45459.

In lieu of flowers, contributions are encouraged to Hospice of Dayton or the Cincinnati Red’s Community Fund.