James Edward Shepard

James Edward Shepard, 86, of Gastonia, went home to be with the Lord on September 11, 2021, at his home.

He was born October 5, 1934, in Jackson County, NC, son of the late Troy Shepard and Nannie Belle Beasley Shepard.

He was a member of Landmark Baptist Church in Gastonia.

James was an ordained minister. He loved the Lord and his family.

He worked in the textile industry for over 25 years and also worked as a security officer for 20 years.

A celebration of Jameses life will be held  2:00 pm Thursday, September 16, 2021, at Landmark Baptist Church,  Gastonia, officiated by Pastor Forrest Hennessee.

James will lie in state one hour prior to the service at the church.

Burial will be at Westview Gardens, Bessemer City.

James is survived by sons, Mike Shepard(Jana), Kyle Shepard (Deda), Mark Shepard (Deborah); daughters, Lisa Anderson, Kim Stover; sister, Rita Shepard; grandchildren, Robert Arrowood, Nathan Arrowood, Brad Arrowood, Danny Anderson, Brittany Stover, Kristen Stover, Erika Stover, Aaron Shepard, Joseph Greene, Angie Greene, Maci Jacobs, Matt Shepard, Lauren Shepard, Dylan Shepard, Lyndsey Shepard, Logan Shepard; eighteen great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, James was preceded in death by his wife, Berniece Mills Shepard; son, Chris Shepard; daughter, Carma Greene; sister, Doris Shepard; brothers, Joe and T.J. Shepard.

Memorials may be sent to Landmark Baptist Church, 311 Archie Whitesides Rd. Gastonia, NC 28052.

Arrangements are with the West Chapel of Greene Funeral Service, Gastonia.