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We work with you on a personal level to determine the best solutions for your unique needs, then leverage our seasoned expertise to achieve the best possible results.

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We are your trusted partner in success. Our firm is large enough to offer a full range of professional services at a fair price, but small enough to give you the individual attention that you deserve.

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Rest assured that when a need arises, our firm is ready and capable to handle everything for you so you can focus on what matters most to you.

Dee Ann Shepherd

Born in Canada to American parents, Dee Ann spent the first years of her life in Canada with her family. She then traveled with her family between the United States and Australia, her father serving as a missionary in Australia.

In 1979, Dee Ann married Ian Shepherd (an Australian citizen) and took up residence in Sydney, Australia. After living and working in the area for nine years, they made plans to further their education in America. In 1987, Ian and Dee Ann moved to Nashville, Tennessee where they both entered school, Ian to complete his Master of Business Administration degree and Doctors degree in Economics and Dee Ann to complete her Bachelor of Science degree in Music Education. It was during this time that their children, Tabitha and Ethan, were born. They eventually moved to Abilene, Texas, where Ian works as a professor and Dee Ann completed her Master of Accountancy (M.Acc) degree at Abilene Christian University (ACU).

Dee Ann spent many years working in industry in both Australia and the United States. After completing her M.Acc at ACU, Dee Ann worked as an instructor in the College of Business Administration at ACU and then as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) at various accounting firms in Abilene, Texas, where she held several positions, gaining experience in management, tax, audit, bookkeeping, and payroll.
On January 1, 2024, Dee Ann purchased McCurdy, Stewart & Southward, P.C. (MSS), a certified public accounting firm, from Kris Southward. D. A. Shepherd & Associates, LLC provides the same quality services offered by MSS. Dee Ann’s experience in tax and accounting procedures has uniquely qualified her to lead the company into the future.

Email: deeann@dashepherdcpa.com

Kris Southward

Kris began his accounting career working at Davis, Kinard and Co. in 1985. He began his own firm in 1986 and merged with McCurdy, Stewart and Associates, P.C. in 1989, to form McCurdy, Stewart & Southward, P.C. He currently works for D.A. Shepherd & Associates, after selling his firm to them in 2024.

Kris has been married to Karen since 1985 and has 3 children, and 6 grandchildren. He has served, or is currently serving, on numerous boards (Abilene Preservation League – past treasurer, Key City Kiwanis Club – past treasurer, Rescue the Animals – past treasurer, Abilene Firefighter’s Pension Board, Taylor County Republican Party – past treasurer, Hispanic Leadership Council – past treasurer, Abilene Business and Estate Planning Council – past president, Taylor County Expo Center). He was elected to 2 three-year terms on the Abilene City Council (2000 and 2003). He coached his daughters’ soccer and basketball teams and has been a weekly driver for Meals on Wheels since 1991. He also serves as an Elder at the University Church of Christ.

On January the 1st of 2024, Kris transitioned ownership of his company to D. A. Shepherd & Associates, LLC.

 

Annette Y. Conover

Annette Y. Conover is a dedicated and experienced accountant at D.A. Shepherd & Associates, LLC. She brings a wealth of experience and a passion for excellence to her role, where she works diligently to produce exceptional work and represent the firm with integrity and professionalism.

A lifelong Texan, Annette has lived in several communities across the state, including Rotan and Dallas, and now calls Abilene home. Her journey through life and career reflects her adaptability and commitment to family and community.

Annette attended Texas State Technical College and began her professional career as a receptionist and purchasing clerk. Her dedication and attention to detail led her to pursue accounting, gaining valuable expertise in accounts payable and payroll. She honed her skills during her 26 years of service with Taylor County and later expanded her experience at Big Country Title before joining D.A. Shepherd & Associates, LLC.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Annette is deeply family-oriented. She and her husband, Cal Conover—a retired veteran—have three children, Abigayle, Chris, and Calvin, and are proud grandparents to four grandchildren. As part of a military family, with both sons serving in the Air Force and Army, Annette places great importance on devotion to country and values the sacrifices made by those in service.

In her personal life, Annette enjoys traveling and road trips, especially with the women of her family, creating cherished memories and strengthening bonds. Her love for family and country shapes her approach to life, making her an exceptional asset to D.A. Shepherd & Associates, LLC and a valued member of her community.

Email: aconover@dashepherdcpa.com

Brandy Murray

Brandy Murray is a dedicated and accomplished Senior Accountant at D.A. Shepherd & Associates, LLC. A native Texan, Brandy was born in Lubbock and moved to Abilene in 1993, where she has established both her career and her family life.
As the first person in her family to attend college, Brandy paved the way with hard work and determination. She earned her undergraduate degree from Angelo State University and went on to complete her master’s degree at Abilene Christian University. Her educational achievements reflect her commitment to professional growth and excellence.
Throughout her career, Brandy has held various roles, including Controller, Fiscal Services Accountant, and Staff Accountant, gaining comprehensive experience across multiple fields. She spent eight years in public accounting with Ray & Company, PC, two years in government accounting with Region 14 ESC, and four years working in various private businesses. This diverse background has equipped her with a broad and deep understanding of accounting practices, allowing her to bring valuable insights to her clients.
Brandy’s approachable and friendly demeanor has helped her build strong relationships with both clients and colleagues. She is passionate about ensuring her clients feel supported and confident in their financial decisions. Her goal is to be a trusted advisor, helping businesses achieve their objectives and find effective solutions to any challenges they face.
Outside of her professional life, Brandy is a proud mother to her two children, Jayden and Jaxon. She enjoys spending her free time traveling, cooking, attending concerts, movies, and comedy shows, and exploring new restaurants—her love for tacos is unmatched!
Brandy’s commitment to her work, combined with her warm personality and dedication to personal and professional growth, makes her an invaluable asset to D.A. Shepherd & Associates, LLC, and a trusted resource for her clients.