Kenneth Dueane Shepherd Jr
In Loving Memory
Kenneth “Kenny” Shepherd Jr, 59, passed away on October 14th, 2025 in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Born in Portsmouth, Virginia on November 5, 1965, Ken lived a life full of love, creativity, character, and a deep appreciation for the little things that made him happy.
Growing up, he was known for his big personality and his knack for making people laugh — often by turning everyday moments into little songs or funny jingles that he made up on the spot. He had a love for soap operas, horror movies, and the music of Madonna to which he never missed an opportunity to turn up the volume and sing along. Ken had a collector’s heart — from Christmas bears and stamps to anything that caught his eye, he found joy in surrounding himself with things that told a story. He loved to travel, and would always take an opportunity to go to a Kansas City Chiefs or Royals game to show his support. His fur babies were his pride and joy, always by his side and spoiled beyond measure.
A proud veteran, Ken served as a chef in the U.S. Army, where his passion for cooking took root, and followed him into a lifelong joy. He showed his love and care through food—whether it was a home cooked meal, or a run to Popeyes (his all-time favorite). Ken built a steady and respected career with Monarch Properties, where he worked for the last 17 years before retiring in May of 2025, and he was valued for his reliability, interest in teaching new staff, ability to solve problems easily and quickly, and hard work ethic.
Though life was not without its complications, Ken loved his family deeply. He shared a strong bond with his sisters, who meant the world to him. He was a proud father, a caring grandfather, and a loving husband.
Ken was preceded in death by his mother, Beverly Taylor. He is survived by his father, Kenneth Shepherd Sr., his sisters: Kathryn Kluge, Melissa Enloe, and Denise Fiene; his husband: Adam Rosenboom; his children: Kayleigh Santiago and Tara Phillips, and his grandchildren: Katerina and Nolan Santiago, who were the light of his life.
Those who knew Ken will remember his quick wit, his love of music, his colorful sense of humor, and the way he could make a room feel just a little more vibrant. His spirit will live on in all who knew and loved him. Hw will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.
A burial service will be held on Friday, November 7, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at Santa Fe National Cemetery in Santa Fe, New Mexico.