Leslie Davis Sheppard, 84, of New Canaan, CT, passed away on March 7, 2025, after a brief illness.
Leslie Davis Sheppard
Leslie (Les) was a global pioneer in direct marketing as the Chairman & CEO of Wunderman International in London, and as General Manager, Direct, UK for Ogilvy & Mather in the late 70’s and early 80’s. Upon returning from London, he continued his distinguished career in Boston, Naples, FL, Pasadena, Ca and New Canaan, CT focusing on direct marketing and consulting until his death.
Les was born in East Orange, NJ, to the late Merrill Davis Sheppard and Dorothy Helen Richards on November 12, 1940. He grew up in Roselle Park and graduated from John Jay High School. He went on to study at Wesleyan University in CT and Thunderbird School of Global Management in AZ.
Les was a lifelong athlete. He was the captain of the Roselle Park basketball team, quarterback on the John Jay football team, played Varsity lacrosse for Wesleyan, an avid squash, tennis and platform tennis player. While living in England, he and his partner became the first national platform tennis champions after the introduction of the sport. He enjoyed playing tennis in the local leagues up until his passing.
Les met Constance McCune during his freshman year at Wesleyan. They married in 1962 and had three wonderful daughters and adored their six grandchildren.
Leslie is survived by: Kirsten (Michael) Sheppard-Hyatt, Merrill (David) Flood, and Stacey (Scott) Essex. His beloved grandchildren: Alex Falk, Olivia and Sarah Lam, Hunter, Sydney and Campbell Essex. Sibling, Susan (Dave) Norris and sisters in law, Betsey (John) Vinton, Anne (Andrew) Hogeland, Heather McCune and brother-in-law Joseph (Gigi) McCune. He also had many wonderful nieces and nephews.
Leslie is predeceased by his loving wife of 61 years, Constance McCune Sheppard. He will be deeply missed by his family and friends.
For online condolences please visit www.hoytfuneralhome.com.
[This obituary appeared on the Hoyt Funeral Home website.]