Matthew Wayne Shepard
1976 - 1998
The following poem was written by Matthew's cousin,
Megan Shepard, and was read at Matthew's funeral.
For Matthew
An angel with new wings
In a place a world away
Can once again begin to sing
God took him in his arms today
He blessed his soul with loving care
And took away his pain
His life story all would share
His memory on their hearts a stain
So young a heart destroyed
For a cause unforgotten
Another's mind deployed
The result a tragedy rotten
The tragic hero that's hard to find
A martyr with great courage
God's lamb in rare design
Never to be discouraged
Our love for him forever strong
His image will never fade
We'll meet him again before long
Temporary goodbyes we now must bade
Matty, I love you with all my heart
I wish you only knew how much
You'll be happier with this brand new start
The world's hearts you have now touched.
With love,
