WHEREAS, Derrick L. Shepard, a cherished husband, father, athlete, coach, friend, and Oklahoman, whose life was tragically cut short by a heart attack on August 4, 1999, at the age of 35; and

WHEREAS, Derrick was a starting wide receiver on the 1985 University of Oklahoma National Championship team and played professional football from 1987 to 1991 for the Dallas Cowboys, New Orleans Saints, and Washington Redskins; and

WHEREAS, after his professional football career, Derrick dedicated his life to coaching and mentoring young athletes at U.S. Grant High School, the University of Oklahoma, and in Wyoming; and

WHEREAS, Derrick's legacy remains evident through the lives of his loving wife, Cheri, his children, Ashleigh, Shelby, and Sterling, his grandchildren, and all those who were fortunate to call him a teammate, a loved one, or a friend; and

WHEREAS, Derrick's relentless pursuit of his dreams, despite the odds, serves as an inspiration to all Oklahomans.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE 2ND SESSION OF THE 59TH OKLAHOMA LEGISLATURE:

THAT the Oklahoma House of Representatives hereby declares April 8 as Derrick Shepard Day in recognition of his enduring legacy and his significant contributions to his community, the University of Oklahoma, and the State of Oklahoma.