Rabon Dean Shepherd

Rabon Dean Shepherd, beloved son of the late Rankin Rance Shepherd and Magie Jane Parks, passed away on July 25, 2024, at WakeMed in Raleigh, NC, surrounded by two of his loving children his son Alton Dean Shepherd and his daughter Delois Jane Shepherd “Brownie”.

As a young boy, Rabon attended the Randolph County School Systems, where he laid the foundation for a life filled with cherished memories and meaningful experiences. Throughout his life, Rabon was known for his love of the outdoors, particularly his passion for hunting and fishing.

Rabon's spiritual journey led him to the Union Chapel Church in Kittrell, North Carolina, where he found solace and purpose. A couple of years ago, he made a profound decision to recommit his life to Christ, a decision that brought him great peace and fulfillment.

Upon reaching adulthood, Rabon relocated to Henderson, NC, where he encountered the love of his life, Linda Marie. Their bond was so strong that Rabon lovingly referred to her as "Honey." Together, they were blessed with three children, Alton Dean Shepherd Delois Jane Shepherd, and Rita Renee Blankenship. Rabon's love for his children knew no bounds, and he dedicated himself to providing them with a happy and fulfilling life.

In addition to being a devoted family man, Rabon was actively involved in his community as a softball coach for a local team, where he shared his passion for the sport with others. He found joy in coaching and nurturing young talents, leaving a lasting impact on those he mentored. He worked for many years at Harriett Henderson Yard and was able to retire from what they call the “Mill.”

One of Rabon's simple pleasures in life was enjoying a refreshing Coca-Cola, a drink that brought him comfort and delight over the years. His warm smile, kind heart, and unwavering faith will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

He was proceeded in death by father and mother Rankin Rance Shepherd Magie Jane Shepherd, one brother Robert Shepherd, and one close sister Vonda Shepherd.

Rabon Dean Shepherd leaves to cherish his “Honey” Linda Marie Shepherd, one son Alton Dean Shepherd, two daughters Delois Jane Shepherd “Brownie”, and Rita Renee Blankenship, 11 grandchildren Mollie R. Shepherd, Zachary Wayne Pendergrass, Timothy Earn Hedgepeth, William Jeffrey Hedgepeth, William Todd Hedgepeth, Jennifer Delois Hedgepeth, Amanda Jane Hedgepeth, Pedro Velasquez, Andrea Delgado, Jessica Aguado, and Brittany Cardoza, 11 great grandchildren, Catherine Ann Hedgepeth, Lexie Mae Hedgepeth, Joshua Caleb Hedgepeth, Brice Hedgepeth, Ava Jewel Hedgepeth, Isaiah Hedgepeth, Sarah Ann Hedgepeth, William Todd Hedgepeth, Jr., Erica Lynn Hedgepeth, Zachariah Hedgepeth, and Kevin Hedgepeth, and I host of nieces, nephews cousins, other relatives and friends.

Rabon will leave behind a legacy of love, faith, and dedication that will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to have crossed paths with him. May his memory be a blessing and may he rest in eternal peace.

Family will honor Rabon Dean Shepherd in a Memorial Service at Union Chapel Church located at 6535 Raleigh Road Kittrell, NC 27544 on August 3, 2024 at 11:00AM.

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