It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that the family of Nicholas “Nick” Royal Shepard announces his unexpected passing on July 5, 2026, at the Saint John Regional Hospital. Born in Saint John, NB, on October 16, 1984, he was one of five children born to Brent and Mary (née Bosco) Shepard.
Nick is survived by his loving wife, Cristy Shepard (née Mazariegos), with whom he shared 18 years of marriage; his beloved daughter, Payton, who was the light of his life and whom he was immensely proud of; his parents, Brent and Mary Shepard; his siblings, Justin (Emilie), Jessica (Ryan), Sarah (Alexander), and Simon (Sierra); his parents-in-law, Pablo and Maria Mazariegos; his brother-in-law, Daniel (Lucia), and sister-in-law, Melissa; his niece, Madelyne; his nephews, Grayson, Nash, and Oliver; his uncles, Kevin, Kenny, and Billy Shepard; and his faithful dog, Molly.
Nick was predeceased by his paternal grandparents, William and Phyllis Shepard, and by his beloved dogs, Toasty and Emily.
Nick was a man of faith whose life reflected kindness, compassion, and gratitude. He appreciated life’s simple blessings and had a way of reminding those around him to be thankful for the little things. He was always ready to help anyone in need, giving his time, his heart, and his unwavering support without expecting anything in return. A pillar in the community, Nick was someone people could always count on and lean on during life’s hardest moments. Throughout his life, he chose to do what was right and always led with his heart.
Nick loved deeply and cherished the relationships he built throughout his life. He was a loving and caring husband, an amazing father, a beloved son, a loving brother, a proud uncle, and a loyal friend.
To his family, he wasn’t just a husband and dad—he was an adventure. Whether it was a spontaneous outing, a silly joke, or finding fun in the simplest moments, he had a gift for turning ordinary days into lasting memories. His playful spirit, unconditional love, and the joy he brought to everyone who knew him will be missed beyond words.
Nick leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, generosity, gratitude, and joy. His passing will be felt throughout Saint John, but especially within the family, friends, and community who were blessed to know and love him. The impact he made through his kindness, his willingness to help others, and the love he gave so freely will continue to live on.
Resting at Fundy Funeral Home, 230 Westmorland Road, Saint John, NB E2J 2G3; (506) 646-2424, visitation for Nick will be on Monday, July 13, 2026, from 6:00-8:00 PM. A Memorial Service will take place on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at WayPoint Church (7 Kings Way Drive, Quispamsis, NB), beginning at 10:00AM. Directly following the service, a reception will be held in the church hall.
During this incredibly difficult time, we are asking anyone who can consider donating to help cover funeral expenses and ease the financial burden caused by Nick’s sudden passing and the unexpected loss of income. Any contribution, no matter the amount, is deeply appreciated. If you are unable to donate, sharing the fundraiser with others would mean so much to our family. Please use this link: Nick Shepard GoFundMe
Our family is deeply grateful for the love, prayers, kindness, and support we have received during this heartbreaking time. Thank you for helping us honor Nick’s life and the incredible legacy of faith, love, generosity, gratitude, and joy that he leaves behind.