Christopher Sheppard
“A great soul serves everyone all the time. A great soul never dies. It brings us together again and again.” – Maya Angelou
It is with broken hearts and profound sorrow that we announce the sudden and tragic passing of Christopher George Sheppard—a beloved son, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin, friend, and fierce community advocate.
Christopher leaves to mourn his loving parents, Sheila (née Sheppard) and Cal Priddle, and his siblings: Marlene Sheppard, Crystal Sheppard (Vince), Shane Priddle (Holly) and Donna Priddle.
To his many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews, Chris was lovingly known as “Uncle Brud.” He was adored by Tristan, Tyson, Calleigh, Caleb, Addison, Anica, Ariah, Denver, Peyton, and Bryson—each of whom brought immense joy to his life. The past year, which Chris spent back home in Goose Bay, was filled with cherished memories and laughter that will forever live in their hearts.
Christopher met his biological fathers’ children as an adult and he built meaningful relationships with his sisters Melanie Thomas (Doug) and Michelle Ryan (Ann) their children Caelum, Reilly and Erin Thomas and Eamon Ryan. Also leaving to mourn are his step siblings: Lawrence ( Margie), Trevor ( Wanda) and Nancy. He will be sadly missed in their lives.
He is also survived by a wide circle of extended family and treasured friends, including his beloved Aunt Lilla, who held a special place in his heart. Among these cherished relationships was his best friend, Ashley Bensaid, whom he met by fate while working at Tim Hortons in 2004. More like a sister then a friend, their bond was the strongest he ever had. Together, they celebrated life’s highs and supported each other through it’s lows. Chris fondly adored Ashley’s young son, Adam, whom he loved watching grow up and getting to watch Ashley become the mother she always dreamed of. Additionally, Chris shared 12 meaningful years with his longtime partner and former-husband Jacob Buote, whom he loved deeply and who remained an important part of his life.
Chris is predeceased by his biological father Maxwell Tiller, grandparents George and Violet Sheppard, and his beloved dogs Charlie and Tyson.
Born and raised in the Inuit community of Postville, Nunatsiavut, Christopher was a proud Inuk whose life was shaped by cultural pride, love for community, and a calling to serve. From 2004 to 2019, he lived in St. John’s, where he became a pillar of the urban Indigenous community through his work at the St. John’s Native Friendship Centre (now First Light). Over 12 years, Chris held roles from youth worker to Executive Director, shaping programs that empowered Indigenous youth and families.
Chris was also a nationally respected leader. He was first elected to the National Association of Friendship Centres (NAFC) Executive in 2008, later serving two terms as Vice President, and ultimately as President from 2017 to 2021—representing and advocating for urban Indigenous peoples across Canada.
In 2019, Chris moved to Saskatchewan with former husband Jacob to take on a senior leadership role as Director of Innovation, Sustainability, and Core Social Economy, supporting the province’s 10 Friendship Centres. In 2022, he relocated to Fredericton, NB, to lead Awagati, continuing his work in Indigenous-led community development.
Chris’s contributions extended far beyond the workplace. He was a Newfoundland and Labrador Human Rights Commissioner (2015–2019), a member of the Urban Aboriginal Knowledge Network Executive Committee, and a tireless advocate for Indigenous youth through the Aboriginal Youth Council and other grassroots initiatives.
In 2024, Chris returned home to Happy Valley-Goose Bay to be close to family and care for his father during his cancer treatments. With unwavering devotion, he became his dad’s medical escort and advocate, a role he embraced with the same compassion and resolve he brought to every part of his life.
Christopher’s passing is not only a devastating personal loss but also a tragic reflection of the systemic failures within Labrador’s healthcare system—especially its impact on Indigenous communities. As he was an advocate in life, we commit to ensuring that his voice continues to be heard in death. His story will be a rallying cry for equity, dignity, and justice.
Chris lived boldly—with heart, humour, and unstoppable passion. His legacy is one of fierce love, fearless leadership, and boundless generosity. He was, simply, unforgettable.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, at 1:30 p.m. at Bethel Pentecostal Tabernacle, Happy Valley-Goose Bay. A reception will follow at 3:00 p.m. at the Canuck Club, 5 Wing Goose Bay.
Cremation has taken place. Flowers are gratefully accepted, or donations may be made in Christopher’s memory to the Labrador Friendship Centre.
“Perhaps they are not stars, but rather openings in heaven where the love of our lost ones pours through and shines down upon us to let us know they are happy.”