Shepard Hilson III

SHEPARD HILSON III was born on June 16, 1953 in Cincinnati, Ohio, to the union of the late Shepard Hilson, Jr. and Rosanna Hilson (Strong). Shepard, affectionately known as Junior to his family and Shep to the many friends, passed away peacefully on July 15, 2025 at UC Health Hospital West Chester. He fought a valiant fight, but the Lord knew best.

He graduated from Courter Technical High School in 1971, then attended Bowling Green State University and worked at Formica Corporation before joining Duke Energy (formerly Cincinnati Gas & Electric Company) in 1975 as a heavy equipment operator. He remained there for 34 years until his retirement in 2009. He did, however, return to Duke Energy on a part time basis for a short period to assist the tree trimming crew. Although he loved working in his yard, it wasn’t enough to keep him busy. He began working at Walden Pounds Golf Club until his health began to fail. He was a worker!

Shep also was caring, friendly, loving and valued friendships. He met no strangers. His spirit always showed and anyone he met soon became a friend. His love of family and friends resulted in many get togethers at his home. He was always excited to entertain and be sur-rounded by his family and friends.

He also had a life-long love of sports that was exhibited through his coaching little league football and women’s softball. Golfing with friends was another passion, in addition to riding his Harley Davidson motorcycle. However, most importantly, he loved the Lord. He never forgot that the Lord was the source of his strength and that the Lord’s love is everlasting.

Shep’s journey of faith began at St. Mark Missionary Baptist Church. As a diligent Bible student, Shep recognized that the Lord had more for him to do and subsequently was ordained a Deacon at New Jerusalem Baptist Church on March 11, 2018 under the pastorship of Rev. Damon Lynch, Jr. He continued his spiritual growth as a Deacon at Endeavor Church under the pastorship of Rev. Joel McCauley where he remained active until his passing.

He was preceded in death by two siblings, Steven Hilson and Jerald Brantly.

He leaves to cherish his memory: his loving and devoted wife, Venita; one daughter, Frances Hilson; three stepchildren, Mario Gentry, Kandi Jones and Joe Jones; in addition, he was considered a father-figure to Alena Speed; brothers, Kevin Hilson, Brian Hilson (Gormah) and Greg Banks (Charisse); sisters, Sharon Bates, Monica Hilson, Kendall Hilson, Lydia (Hilson) McLean, Kelly (Hilson) Hardin (Todd) and Erica Lester; a host of grandchildren and several great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members and a

circle of very special friends who loved and admired him. His impact will forever be felt in the lives he touched with his wisdom, laughter and unwavering presence.

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