In 2004, Topps included Sheppard in it's All-Time Fan Favorites set. While I'm sure there had to have been better pictures the Topps Company could have used for the "Voice of God", this is what they came up with.
The man had been with the Yankees organization since 1951 (April 17, 1951 was his big league debut), and was there in time to see legendary outfielder Joe DiMaggio pass the outfield baton to a young Oklahoman named Mickey Mantle. He made it through the Mantle and Maris days, Munson, Jackson and the rest of Billy Martin's boys of the 70's, Mattingly, Winfield, and the Bombers of the 80's, and the resurgence led by Jeter, Posada, Rivera, and the rest in the 1990's and 2000's. Along with the Yankees success in the playoffs, he was the stadium announcer for 13 of the Bombers' 27 titles.
He is survived by his wife, Mary, sons Paul and Christopher, daughters Barbara and Mary, four grandchildren and at least nine great-grandchildren.
Our condolences to the Sheppard Family, the New York Yankees organization, and Baseball Fans everywhere.
Sincerely,
JayBee Anama
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