Lyals Raymond Sheppard Jr., age 72, formally of Crestview Hills, Kentucky, died at his home in Ruskin, Florida, on Monday, December 21,2009 after a battle with cancer. Ray was born July 28, 1937 in Fairmont, West Virginia. He served as Vice President for Industrial Relations at Ball Corporation until his retirement in 1994. Ray and Vera moved to Florida that year and he enjoyed life as an avid golfer. Survivors include his devoted wife of 25 years, Vera; his sister, Sue Markle; three children, Randall Sheppard, Ronald Sheppard and wife Kimberly, Jodi Dirr and husband Joe; three granddaughters, Valerie Patrick, Megan and Erin Dirr; two great-grandchildren; step-children, Renee' Butler, Mark and Jason Hoebbel; four step-grandchildren. There has been a cremation and a memorial service will be held at a later date in his home state of Kentucky. Donations in Ray's memory may be given to LifePath Hospice, 3725 Upper Creek Drive, Ruskin, Florida, 33573.