Nancy Shepherd, 69, of Louisville, Kentucky passed away on June 22, 2016.
She attended undergraduate at the University of Kentucky obtaining a bachelor's degree. Nancy later attended University of Louisville where she earned a master's degree in English. Nancy taught Advanced Program English and Humanities at her alma mater Seneca High School (1965) from 1970 until 1981. In 1980 she embarked on her life's passion the restaurant industry.
Nancy was a ground breaker in the Louisville restaurant scene opening one of the first fine dining restaurants, Café Metro, in 1980 on Bardstown Road in the heart of the Highlands.
Five years later she opened the Uptown Café, now in its 30th year, offering upscale casual dining across the street from Café Metro which closed in 2009.
Nancy's love of people, food, wine, and spirits inspired generations of food lovers and restaurateurs. Her graciousness, irreverence, and indomitable spirit will be remembered by all who knew her.
Nancy was born on February 18, 1947 in Louisville, Kentucky to the late William and Wilma (Bryant) Mason. She was also preceded in death by her sister Sue Yung, father-in-law, J.P. Shepherd, husband David Shepherd, and brother-in-law, John Shepherd.
Nancy is survived by her daughter, Kelley (Chris) Ledford, grandchildren, Lucie and Lilly Ledford, mother-in-law, Margaret Shepherd, sisters-in-law, Cathy and Cheryl Shepherd, nieces, Michelle McDowell and Kristen Shepherd and nephew, Chuck Shepherd. Nancy is also survived by a host of friends.
A special thank you to Ginna Mooser, Nora Hall, John Benock and all the staff at the Nazareth Home for all the love, comfort, care and joy they shared with Nancy. She will be truly missed.
Visitation will be from 3:00 pm until the time of the memorial service at 4:30 pm on Tuesday, July 5, 2016 at the Nazareth Home 2000 Newburg Road Louisville, Kentucky 40205 with a reception to follow at the Uptown Café 1624 Bardstown Road Louisville, Kentucky 40205.
Additional parking for the Nazareth Home can be located in The Passionist lot between St. Agnes and the Nazareth Home off Newburg Road.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Nazareth Home 2000 Newburg Road Louisville, Kentucky 40205.
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