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Donelle Renee (Harris) Shepherd, of Owosso, passed away on Monday, June 22, 2026, at Corewell Health William Beaumont University Hospital in Royal Oak, Michigan, surrounded by her family. She was 54.
Donelle was born on August 9, 1971, in Big Rapids, Michigan, to parents Garry and Bonnie Harris. She was a graduate of Owosso High School, Class of 1991. From a young age, Donelle always knew she wanted to be a mom and have lots of children. On November 7, 1992, she entered into marriage with Robert "Bobby" Shepherd. Together, the couple grew a home filled with countless kids and lots of laughter. As a stay-at-home mom, she lovingly raised nine children and opened her heart and home to foster many others throughout the years. Her nurturing spirit touched countless lives, and she never met a child she didn't love. Her home was a revolving door for her children, their friends, and anyone who needed a place to belong. No matter who walked through the door, they were greeted with warmth, kindness, and often a seat at the table. She made everyone feel like family. If there was a family gathering, you could almost always find Donelle with a baby in her arms. She had a special gift for making everyone feel loved, welcomed, and cared for. Her home was a place of comfort, laughter, and unconditional love. Donelle loved spending time outdoors and found happiness in life's simple pleasures. She enjoyed special trips up north, enjoying the beauty of nature, sitting around bonfires, and making memories with those she loved most. Whether gathered around a campfire, celebrating a holiday, or simply enjoying a summer evening, she treasured every opportunity to be surrounded by family and friends.
Donelle is survived by her mother, Bonnie Harris-Snyder; father, Garry (Lisa) Harris; children, Mackenzie (Eric) Ross, Michael (Merissa) Shepherd, Trey Shepherd, Madison (Michael) Fisher, Trevor (Nichole) Shepherd, Justin (Sarah) Shepherd, Jacob (Kali) Shepherd, Nicholas Shepherd, and Elijah Shepherd; grandchildren, Athena Ross, Calum Ross, Raegan Fisher, Jackson Shepherd, Beckhem Shepherd, Sennah Shepherd, Kyler Shepherd, and Lacie Shepherd; her children's father, Robert "Bobby" Shepherd; brothers, Justin (Stephanie) Harris and Todd Snyder (Ann Eno); sister, Autumn Jeanne Harris; sister-in-law, Heidi Snyder; nieces and nephews, Sophie Harris, Bailey (Brandon) Darga, Jared Snyder, and Luke Snyder; her best friend, Rachael Powell, and many other loving family and friends.
She was preceded in death by her step-father, Roger Snyder; step-brother, Brent Snyder; grandparents, Dale Cramner, Lena and Arthur Sckinko, Donald and Jean Harris, and Tom and Karlene Browder; great-grandparents, Clarence and Beatrice Childs; and her best friend, Wendy Crambell.
Cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date.
Condolences and memories may be shared online at www.Hitesman-Holdship.com.
The family is being served by Hitesman-Holdship Funeral Home.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Donelle Renee (Harris) Shepherd, please visit our floral store.