Joseph Alva Shepard

Joseph Alva Shepard, 82, of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, formerly of Rhode Island, passed away on March 11, 2026, at his residence. Born on August 4, 1943, in Providence, Rhode Island, he was the son of Joseph Kenneth Shepard and Gladys Carr Shepard.

A graduate of Hope High School in Providence, Joseph went on to attend Maine Maritime Academy in Castine, Maine. He earned his credentials as a Master of Steam and Motor Vessels of any gross tons upon oceans and served as a First-Class Pilot with Northeast Marine Pilots in Rhode Island, guiding vessels from New York through the Cape Cod Canal and many ports in between. His brother Paul followed a similar path, also becoming a Master and First-Class Pilot.

Joseph was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Judith Shepard, and his parents. He is survived by his brother, Paul Shepard of Myrtle Beach. In retirement, he and Judith enjoyed traveling extensively across the United States in their RV, making two full passes through the country and exploring many places together.

Interment will be held at a later date in St. Mark Cemetery in Jamestown, Rhode Island, in the family plot.