Albuquerque, N.M., farrier Joseph “Joe” Shepard passed away Nov. 16, 2018. He was 71.

Shepard’s love of horses and the racetrack led him to a career as a farrier, which later led him to owning and training horses. He also followed the horse racing circuit for many years. Besides working as a farrier, Shepard also worked in the oil and gas industry and served in the United States Army. He served in Vietnam active duty from January 1967 to January 1969, and received several honors. He also received his GED while in active duty. Shepard was honorably discharged in 1973. Shepard ended his career as a heavy equipment operator at the Downs in Albuquerque.

Services will be held at 9 a.m. Nov. 29 at Emmanuel Baptist Church at 211 W. 20th St., Farmington, N.M. Visitation will be an hour before the services start. Following the services, burial will take place at Greenlawn Cemetery at 1606 N. Dustin Ave., Farmington, N.M. Those who wish to send their condolences to the family may do so by visiting www.serenityandcompany.com.