Libby Jean Shepard

Libby Jean Smith Shepard, age 86, of Lincolnton, North Carolina and formally of Marion, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on the night of Wednesday, February 20, 2019 at Lincolnton Rehabilitation Center.  A native of McDowell County, North Carolina, born October 31, 1932, she was the daughter of the late William and Maggie Parkins Smith. 

In addition to her parents, Mrs. Shepard was preceded in death by her husband, John Arthur Shepard, who passed away in 1997; one great granddaughter, Brooke Nicole Buchanan; one brother, Jack Smith and one sister, Edith Deaton.

Libby, who was very soft spoken and polite, was an avid lover of music.  A member of Faith Tabernacle Church in Marion, she truly loved her family, church family and supporting local ministries. 

Left to cherish her memories are five children, Dennis Shepard (Diane), Rick Shepard (Janet), Donna Walsh, Sandy Peterkin (Steve) and William Shepard; eleven grandchildren, twenty-three great grandchildren; and one great-great grandchild on the way.  She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Betty Reece Smith; and a number of nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, February 23, 2019 at 3:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Beam Funeral Service in Marion with Pastor Steve Peterkin officiating.  Interment will follow at Murphy’s Chapel Cemetery.  The family will receive friends from 2:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m., prior to the service, at the funeral home. 

Flowers are acceptable and appreciated.  Those wishing to make a memorial donation in Libby’s memory are asked to consider, Hospice & Palliative Care- Lincoln County, 900 Dontia Drive, Lincolnton, North Carolina 28092 or by visiting www.hpccr.org.