It is with heavy hearts that we announce the sudden passing of our sweet boy, Lathan Riley Shepard, on November 13, 2025, at the age of 9.

Lathan was born April 21, 2016, to his beloved parents Oriana Noll and Caleb Shepard. Lathan is survived by his parents Oriana and Garrett Noll and Caleb Shepard. Siblings Owen Noll, Knox Shepard, and Hudson Noll. Grandparents Wendy and Pete Roth, Cara and Rob Propst, Matt Shepherd, Michelle and Bob Noll. Great-grandparents Elaine Kennedy, Patty Shepard and Harold Etzel, Ron and Janet Shepard, Rose and Bob Propst, Fred and Kay Shepherd. Aunts and uncles, Luke (Taylor) Propst, Carter (Missy) Propst, Jeremy Propst, Tony (Elizabeth) Roth, Dylan (Hilah) Roth, Colin Shepherd, and Taylor Noll. Cousins Oliver Propst, Kendall Propst, Waylon Roth, Westin Roth, and Carter Johnston. Numerous great aunts and uncles, cousins, and a circle of friends that are like family.

Lathan was a 4th grader at Festus Intermediate School. Anyone who met him knew he lived his life full of happiness and love and will remember him for his free spirit and kind heart. From the time he was born, he had a love for the outdoors whether it was riding bikes, scooters, fishing, climbing trees, or trying to catch or rescue any animal he could find. He had the biggest imagination and would have all kinds of adventures. Outside was where he truly was the happiest. He had recently found his passion, baseball. He loved playing pick up games with his buddies, playing catch, practicing pitching, and hitting dingers into the woods. He had worked and practiced really hard and was excited to start with his new team.

He always enjoyed being the center of attention and would do anything for a laugh. He enjoyed making faces (especially in pictures), dancing silly, making videos, and playing pranks. His life was full of laughter, full belly laughs and his own signature giggle. That happiness was contagious and you could not help laughing along with him.

Let us remember his vibrant spirit and the immeasurable impact he made on all of our lives. May his memory continue to inspire us to live each day to the fullest as Lathan chose to do every day.

Visitation will be Thursday, November 20th from 4pm to 8pm at Radiant Life Church, 11533 Gamel Cemetery Rd, Festus, MO 63028

In lieu of flowers, please consider bringing a "stuffie" to donate to Toys for Tots and other local children's programs.