Wilder, VT – Carey Ann Shepard, 52, died unexpectedly early Thursday morning, April 14, 2022 at her home in Wilder, VT. She was born July 12, 1969, the daughter of Thomas and Daphne (Cattabriga) Rice.

Carey was a graduate of Hartford High School, Class of 1987. Following graduation, Carey attended Champlain College where she studied Travel and Tourism which led her to a position at Milne Travel in Barre, VT. She worked there for several years before beginning her long career at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center where she has worked as a receptionist for the past twenty-four years. Her smile and laughter was comforting to those around her, staff and guests alike. During the pandemic, she kept her positive spirit and strong work ethic as an essential worker throughout the tough times.

In 2000, Carey met Jason Paul Shepard. They were immediately taken with each other, dated, moved in together and then married May 25, 2002. They lived briefly in Quechee, VT and Enfield, NH before they purchased their home on Division Street in Wilder, VT.

Along with raising their son, Ben, and holding down a full-time job, Carey hoped to open her own bakery out of their home. Carey was an incredible baker, and this was a longtime dream of hers. Her friends will miss her tasty treats at the Christmas cookie swaps. Carey enjoyed watching her son Ben compete in his Hartford football games and track meets. She also loved the ocean; highlights include enjoying vacations to Maine and family trips to Florida. Her heaven most definitely will be beach side in the sun! Carey's huge heart included a love of animals as well. Among numerous pets she had over the years, Bella and Sophia were part of her daily joy.

Carey is survived by her husband, Jason Shepard of Wilder, their sixteen-year-old son, Benjamin, his grandparents Thomas and Daphne Rice of White River Jct., VT, brother Tom Rice, Jr. and Beth Kopp of White River Jct., VT and his sons, Connor, Braedon and August.

Visiting hours will be held Wednesday, April 27th, from 6 to 8 pm at the Knight Funeral Home in White River Jct., VT.

Condolences to Carey's family may be left at an online guest book at www.knightfuneralhomes.com

Memorial contributions may be made to the Upper Valley Humane Society to honor her love for all animals, especially those in need of a new home. A memorial garden is being planned in Carey's honor. Gifts of perennial plants would be most welcome.