Howard Claxton Shepard, 86, Fayetteville, formerly of Hapeville and East Point, died Oct. 26, 2008. He was a veteran of the United States Navy in World War II. He had served aboard the USS Lexington and while on tactical exercises in the Hawaiian Islands became involved with the aftermath of the bombing of Pearl Harbor. Following discharge from the Navy he joined C&S Airlines in Memphis as a mechanic. When the airline merged with Delta Air Lines, he and his family moved to Atlanta. He was a longtime member of the Fayette Presbyterian Church where he sang bass in the choir. Services were at the Fayette Presbyterian Church with the Rev. John J. Skelly officiating. Interment was at Westminster Memorial Gardens, Peachtree City. Survivors include his wife, Gertrude Wendling Shepard, whom he met during his Naval career while skating; sons, Howard N. Shepard, Jonesboro, and Robert W. Shepard, Gainesville; a granddaughter, Jacey Shepard, Gainesville; and a sister, Gladys Ainger. Carl J. Mowell & Son Funeral Home, Fayetteville, was in charge.