Kathleen Shepherd

(nee Lenkowski) On March 15, 2026, of Brigantine, NJ. Age 77. Beloved wife James. Devoted mother of Michael (Megan), and Greg (Elisa). Loving grandmother of Max, Ryan, Taylor, and Riley. Dear sister of Betty Ecret, and the late Joseph, John, and Billy Lenkowski. Loved by nieces and nephews.

Kathleen Helen Lenkowski Shepherd, born in Camden, New Jersey in 1948 to Joseph and Elizabeth Lenkowski, passed away surrounded by the love of her family.

Kathy grew up as the baby of the family and loved sharing stories from that part of her childhood. Her love story with her husband, James Shepherd, began in Belmar, New Jersey, where Jim—her childhood paper boy—quickly became the love of her life. Their bond grew into a beautiful marriage that lasted 58 years, filled with devotion, laughter, and countless memories. Together, they raised two sons in Washington Township, NJ: Mike (Megan) and Greg (Elisa), before later settling in Brigantine, a place that brought them joy and peace.

Kathy spent more than 25 years working at Macy’s, where she formed lifelong friendships and brightened the days of everyone around her. She had a natural gift for making people feel welcome, whether at work, at home, or anywhere she went.

Kathy loved the beach—especially Brigantine. The ocean was her happy place, and she shared that love with her children and grandchildren. Many of their best memories were made with sandy feet, salty hair, and the sun setting behind them.

She and Jim were the heart of every gathering. They loved playing cards with friends, hosting parties for any occasion, and celebrating holidays with an open‑door spirit. Christmas and July 4th were legendary in the Shepherd home—filled with laughter, music, and the kind of joy that made everyone feel like family. Kathy was always the life of the party, dancing, laughing, and enjoying a glass of Chardonnay with the people she loved.

Her circle of friends was incredibly important to her, especially the group lovingly known as “The Sorority.” These women were her chosen sisters—sharing stories, laughter, support, and countless unforgettable moments. Kathy cherished every gathering, every joke, and every memory made with them.

Her sons inherited her love of music and cooking, passions she shared generously and joyfully. But above all, Kathy treasured her role as Mom Mom to her grandchildren: Max, Ryan, Taylor, and Riley. They were the center of her world. She loved taking them to the beach, traveling to Disney, and singing “A Bushel and a Peck,” a song they will forever associate with her love. Her grandchildren adored spending time with her, and the memories they created together will remain treasured forever.

Kathy is also survived by her beloved sister, Betty Ecert, affectionately known as “Sissy,” with whom she shared a lifelong bond filled with love, laughter, and countless cherished memories. She is further survived by her many nieces and nephews, all of whom held a special place in her heart. Kathy loved them deeply and took great joy in being part of their lives, celebrating their milestones, and cheering them on through every chapter.

She will be profoundly missed and forever remembered by all who were lucky enough to know her.

Family and friends are invited to attend her celebration of life Tuesday, March 24^th 4:00 – 6:00 pm at the Egizi Funeral Home, 119 Ganttown Road, Washington Twp.  At 6:00 pm there will be a time of sharing memories, prayers and love offered by family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Kathleen’s memory may be made to Alzheimer’s Association

“A Life Well Lived Is Worth Remembering”