After a valiant fight, Leah Barbara Shepherd passed away surrounded by her loving family at the age of 37, on July 19, 2023, in Vancouver, British Columbia. She will be forever missed by her family, friends, neighbours and coworkers, as the positive influence she had on the lives of others is so far reaching.
Leah achieved a Law degree from the University of Alberta in 2013. An impressive but all too brief career saw Leah establish her talent in the field of law quickly. Her career included tenures at Hakemi and Ridgedale LLP, MLT Aikins LLP, and most recently with the Law Society of British Columbia. While Leah complied a lengthy list of accomplishments, she will be remembered most for her incredible dedication to her craft and most importantly as someone you do not want to be opposed to in court!
Leah is survived by her mother JoAnne, father Jim, sister Jill, brothers Michael and Daniel, and cherished dog, Franklin. She also leaves behind her six nieces, Victoria, Alexis, Addison, Ashlyn, Olivia and Avery, who will deeply miss their fun aunt.
Leah was at her happiest when relaxing in Sechelt, travelling the world with friends, cuddling with Franklin and endlessly debating philosophy with anyone brave enough. The passion and perseverance Leah brought to life is truly incredible. Her ability to live life to the fullest, even at times of unimaginable struggle, is a demonstration of strength we should not only all be humbled by, but strength we should all try and carry forward together for her.
The family would like to sincerely thank Dr. Nador and the entire lung transplant team at Vancouver General Hospital for their dedication and care they provided for Leah. The family would also like to thank Leah’s numerous friends that never wavered in their support and encouragement throughout her journey.
Leah was the recipient of two lung transplants and a passionate advocate for organ donation. In lieu of flowers, please consider registering as an organ donor at BC Transplant at transplant.bc.ca or donating to the Transplant Research Foundation of BC at trfbc.org
“In the end, it’s not the years in your life that count. It’s the life in your years.” - Abraham Lincoln