Evelyn Samantha Thigpen Sheppard

Evelyn Samantha Thigpen Sheppard, 102, a beloved member of the Avera community, peacefully transitioned into her Heavenly home early Saturday morning, June 22, 2024, at Keysville Nursing Home and Rehabilitation Center. Born on May 1, 1922, Evelyn led a life full of faith, dedication, and love for her family and community.

With over 40 years of service as seamstress at Stapleton Garment Company, Evelyn showcased her dedication and talent in the world of sewing until the company's closure. Her skills as a seamstress were unmatched, leaving a legacy of beautifully crafted garments for many to cherish.

Evelyn's strong faith was evident throughout her life. Having accepted Jesus as her personal Lord and Savior at a young age, she was an active member of Waldens Methodist Church in the past and later found solace in the fellowship of Pleasant Grove Baptist Church. She participated in various church activities, enjoying her status as being the oldest member of the church, and always sharing her love for Jesus with those around her by word and deed.

Beyond her professional and spiritual endeavors, Evelyn dedicated herself to serving her community as a volunteer at the Avera Fire Department. Her selfless acts of kindness and generosity touched the lives of many in times of need.

Described as feisty and tough both physically and spiritually, Evelyn had a heart full of compassion for others. She cared deeply for the well-being of those around her and extended her nurturing nature to become a caregiver for her husband and father-in-law.

In addition to her illustrious career and community service, Evelyn found joy in cooking delicious meals that she lovingly shared with family and friends. Her “food” brought people together during church gatherings and family reunions, where she cherished time spent with loved ones. Evelyn was known for her unwavering love and friendship for her family, friends and community. She always wanted to be “in the know” about the goings on in people’s lives. She found great joy in “visiting” and conversing—often for hours on end—with everyone in the community. A loyal and trustworthy friend, Evelyn was an encourager and uplifted those around her.

Evelyn is survived by her devoted and loving sons Kenneth L. Sheppard (Debbie) and Donald "Duck" Sheppard; brother Mack Thigpen; nieces, nephews, other extended family members, as well as her church family. She is preceded in death by her husband Louis Earnest "Buddy" Sheppard; parents Nellie Peebles Thigpen and Ruel Thigpen; and siblings James Thigpen, Earl Thigpen, Carl Thigpen, and Inez Thigpen. Honored to serve as pallbearers include C. C. Cheeks, Anthony Clark, Russell Clark, Walker Lewis, Warren Mathis and Victor Raley. Honorary pallbearers will be The Gleaner’s Sunday School Class.

Services to celebrate her life will be held at 11:00AM Tuesday, June 25, 2024 at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church with the Rev. Mark Bowers and Chaplain Mike Bell officiating. Interment will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends in the church fellowship hall after the interment.

The family suggests that, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to Pleasant Grove Baptist Church, earmarked for the Youth Fund, PO Box 55, Avera GA 30803.

Evelyn Samantha Thigpen Sheppard will be remembered for her unwavering faith, compassionate spirit, delicious meals shared with loved ones, and lasting impact on all who had the pleasure of knowing her. May she rest in peace knowing that she was deeply loved and respected by all who were fortunate enough to cross paths with this remarkable woman.