Taylor David Shepherd, 61 of Branson, MO

Taylor David Shepherd was born July 1, 1960 in Rigby, Idaho. He graduated from Skyline High School in 1979 in Idaho Falls, Idaho. Taylor was an Eagle Scout and served a two-year mission in the Philippines with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. On August 25, 1982, he married his sweetheart, Dianna Kelling, in the Idaho Falls Temple.

Taylor served as a Staff Sergeant in the United States Army and performed the duties of Combat Engineer, Recruiter and Personnel Management Specialist. After his military career he worked in hospitality services in Colorado. He moved to Branson from Denver fifteen years ago.

Taylor had a variety of interests including playing the piano and chess, history, and cross stitching. He loved having adventures and trips to Disney to ride roller coasters. He was always teasing and pulling pranks on his friends and family. His love and presence will be deeply missed.

Taylor returned with honor to his heavenly home on Saturday, July 31, 2021 at the age of 61.

He was preceded in death by his parents William Nielsen, Jr. and DeLea (Miller) Shepherd.

Taylor is survived by his loving wife, Dianna Shepherd of Branson; daughters Dalene Shepherd of Branson and Jennifer Merz (Andrew) of Orem, UT and two grandchildren, Adam and Julia. Taylor is also survived by his brother, Mark Nielsen (Frances) of Craig, CO and Ryan Proctor of Albuquerque, NM and sisters Ori Lee Hernandez of Idaho Falls, ID and Stephanie Hunter (Jason) of Saint Anthony, ID and his many nieces and nephews.

A celebration of Taylor's life will be held Thursday, August 5, 2021 at 4:00 P.M. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 224 Church Rd, Branson, MO with Bishop Bobby Harris officiating. Taylor donated to Operation Underground Railroad regularly, and memorials are requested to be donated there in lieu of flowers.

Arrangements are under the direction of Snapp-Bearden Funeral Home and Crematory, Branson.