Holton Bryan Shepherd

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Holton Bryan Shepherd, who departed this world on September 14, 2024, at the age of 88. Born on March 31, 1936, in the quiet town of Sparta, Alleghany County, NC, Holton lived a life rich with love, dedication, and service.

Holton was the beloved son of Grover Walter Shepherd and Inez Caudill Shepherd. He was preceded in death by his sister Alese Numa and dear brother, Carlyle McArthur, and his cherished wife, Bonnie Marie Lyon Shepherd, with whom he shared a beautiful marriage of 68 years, having wed on January 5, 1954, in Sparta, NC.

Holton's journey through life was marked by his strong will and unwavering love for his family. He is survived by his brother, Hugh Gray Shepherd, and sister-in-law, Carolyn, who reside in Ennice, North Carolina. He leaves behind his three sons: Edwin "Bryan" Shepherd and wife Cheryl of Yadkinville, Robert Lyon Shepherd and wife Leah of Machipango, Virginia, and Billy Wayne Shepherd and wife LeAndra of Montvale, Virginia. His legacy continues through his grandsons Reid Shepherd (Ren) of Richmond, Virginia, Graham Shepherd of Richmond, Virginia, and Zane Shepherd of Montvale, Virginia.

Holton's extended family includes his sisters-in-law, Margaret Shepherd of Mount Airy, North Carolina, Sue Bowles of Sparta, North Carolina, Nancy Caudill of Roanoke, Virginia and a host of beloved nephews and nieces: Tony Shepherd, Doug Shepherd, Brad Shepherd, Carla Shepherd Bowman, Angie Shepherd Johnson, and Stacie Shepherd Roberts.

Holton's dedication to his community of Yadkinville was evident through his many years of service. He graduated from Sparta High School in 1954. He also received a degree from East Carolina University. He went on to become a Major in the Department of Corrections for the State of North Carolina earning an award by Governor Holshouser (The Order of The Long Leaf Pine). Additionally, he was a proud owner of The Car Store for 30 years. Holton was an active member of various organizations including the Elkin-Jonesville Shrine Club, serving as secretary for 16 years. Other organizations include Masonic Lodge, No. 162 and Jaycees. His contributions to these groups were a testament to his commitment to improving the lives of others.

In his leisure time, Holton found joy in the simple pleasures of life-gardening and working on jigsaw puzzles. These hobbies reflected his patient and meticulous nature. Above all, Holton was a family-loving man whose presence was a pillar of strength for those around him.

Holton's life will be celebrated with a funeral service at his birthplace, Sparta, NC at 3:00 pm on Sunday, September 22nd, 2024 in the chapel of Thomas Family Funeral Service. Interment will follow at Sparta Cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Shriners, an organization close to Holton's heart.

Holton Bryan Shepherd's life was a tapestry of love, service, and dedication. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His memory will live on in the hearts of his family and friends, forever a testament to a life well-lived.

Thomas Family Funeral Service is honored to be serving the Shepherd family. If you wish, online tributes may be extended to the family at www.thomasfamilyfs.com.

 

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