Theron O'Brien Shepard, Sr. of Cypress Creek, NC passed away on Wednesday, May 25, 2022 at the age of 84, after several months of declining health.  Theron died peacefully with his beloved wife, Shirley and their children by his side.

Theron was born in Onslow County, NC on March 15, 1938 to Raymond and Flora Shepard.  The eldest of three children, he helped on his family's farm where he developed his strong work ethic.  Theron graduated from Chinquapin High School in 1956.  He was soon drafted by the United States Army.  He was stationed at Schofield Army Base in Hawaii from 1961- 1963.  Upon his honorable release from the Army, he returned to Cypress Creek.  It was while working tobacco that summer that he met the cute blonde and love of his life, Shirley Brown.  They married in 1964 and together they raised a family that now includes three children, eight grandchildren, three bonus grandchildren, five great grandchildren, one bonus great grandchild and last, but not least, a black and tan dapple dachshund, Scooter.

Theron worked hard to provide for his family.  He farmed land and hogs, worked at Ideal Cement, and sold logging equipment throughout the years.  In his free time, he was an outdoorsman, an avid hunter, and fisherman.  He loved his hounds, boat, family and church.  He was a long time and faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

Although he was not a superhero nor was he perfect, to those who knew him, he was simply the best.  He was honest, fun, full of integrity and completely devoted to his faith and family.  For this, we will be forever grateful.

Theron was preceded in death by his brother, Kenneth Ray Shepard. He is survived by his wife Shirley Brown Shepard; children Tonya Shepard Sorenson (John), Theron O'Brien Shepard, Jr. (Joette), Carol Shepard Dunn (John); grandchildren John Adam Sorenson (Kendra), Caroline Sorenson Monson (Carson), Ashton Elizabeth Sorenson, Hollan Sorenson Black (Michael); Chandler O'Brien Shepard, John Wesley Dunn, Lindsey Elizabeth Dunn, William O'Brien Dunn; great grandchildren John Brooks Sorenson, Grey Barrett Sorenson, Carson Ellis Monson, Sloane Collins Monson and Jack Henry Smart; bonus grandchildren Kandace Lego Grey (Keith), Kori Lego, Kendall Lego; bonus great grandchild Keaton Grey; sister Linda Shepard Cottle and many dearly loved nieces and nephews.

The visitation is planned for Monday, May 30, 2022 from 6-8 pm at Community Funeral Home (840 W Main St, Beulaville, NC 28518). The funeral will be Tuesday, May 31, 2022 at 10:00 am at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (1585 NC-50, Maple Hill, NC 28454). Graveside service to follow at the Gurganus Family Cemetery (1170 Gurganus Road, Richlands, NC 28574).

Those wishing to honor Theron's lifelong commitment to church and community can make donations to The Cypress Creek Community Center or the Missionary Fund of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Please send all donations to 226 Bear Pond Road, Richlands, NC 28574.

Community Funeral Home of Beulaville is honored to serve the Shepard Family.