Yolanda Viola DeFino Shepherd, formerly of Highspire, passed away Friday, April 21, 2006 at Bethany Terrace ALF in Tarpon Springs, FL. She was preceded in death by her husband, Austin R. Shepherd. Born in Gates, PA, she was the daughter of the late Francisco and Pasqualina Gaieta DeFino. She was the 8th of twelve children, born to her parents, all who preceded her in death. She was a graduate of German Township High School in McClellandtown, PA. In 1941, she was appointed to the position of Postmaster of the Adah Post Office in PA, a rare appointment for a young woman in the 1940's. She held this position until she married and moved to Highspire in 1946. Viola graduated Lebanon Valley College and was an elementary school teacher for over 25 years, the last 15 in the Central Dauphin School District, where she retired. Her religious faith and family were central in her life. A devoted Christian, Viola was a member of Highhouse Church in Highhouse, PA, and faithfully attended the Highspire Church of God where she was active in adult and children's Christian education. She was adventuresome, loved being around people and always up for fun. She had a love of history and antiques and was a member of the Highspire Historical Society. Viola also had a keen interest in "experiencing history first hand" and seized every opportunity to travel. She also enjoyed music and art. She was a member of the Highspire Garden Club and was an active volunteer in the Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts organizations, working directly with the children. Other volunteer efforts included teaching English to those from Vietnam who settled in the mid state Pennsylvania area. Viola's extended family was important to her. She was a loving and devoted daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother and aunt to all. She supported everyone and made her presence at family milestones a priority. She is survived by her children, Austin Shepherd and his wife, Denise of Bethel, CT, and Gayeta Porter and her husband, Joseph of Mechanicsburg, PA; four adoring grandchildren, and three great grandchildren; as well as many devoted nieces and nephews. Viola, Yolie, Mom, Gammy, and Aunt Yolie was loved by all. Life celebration in Highspire at Knight Funeral Home at the convenience of the family. Burial at Highspire Cemetery. [Harrisburg Patriot-News]