Thomas went peacefully to be with the Lord on April 22, 2024, surrounded by his loved ones. He was born on July 14, 1955, to the late James Shepherd and Marion Paige. Although he was born in Texas, Thomas spent the majority of his life in North Carolina.
Thomas spent a few years serving in the United States Army. He was mostly known for being an all-around handy man. Thomas spent the majority of his years as a brick mason. He constructed the majority of the brick mailboxes and BBQ pits in our neighborhood. The last few years, he was the maintenance man at Holiday House of Portsmouth. He was known as “Mr. Fix It.” There was nothing he could not fix. Thomas LIVED outside, allergies and all. Thomas was so full of life; he was energetic, smart, and gifted. Most importantly, he was a die-hard Dallas Cowboys fan. A piece of Thomas will always be with us, as he built the sports figurines at the Portsmouth Sports Hall of Fame.
Thomas is preceded in death by baby boy, Thomas C. Shepherd II.
Thomas is survived by his wife of 40 years, Bettie J. Shepherd; son, Derrick D. Williams; daughter, Kisha L. Shepherd; his three granddaughters: MaKayla K. Shepherd, Amara G. Williams, and Caisley J. Williams; his two best friends: Wilbert “JuneBug” and Gary “Big G”; along with a host of family and friends.
God saw the road was getting tough, the hills were hard to climb, He gently closed those lovely eyes and said, “Peace Be Thine.”
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Carolyn Freeman says
April 28, 2024 at 10:21 amSaddened to hear of Thomas’s demise. My prayers are with you all during this time. God will comfort you.
Janice says
May 1, 2024 at 7:01 amCondolences to the family. I met Mr. Thomas at WAWA. Every morning I would see him coming or going. He was a kind man. Rest on Mr. Thomas.
McKinsey Michelle Shepherd says
April 4, 2025 at 2:38 pmThomas “Tommy” Shepherd is my father. My name is McKinsey Michelle Shepherd, and I was born and raised in Williamston, NC. I was born on March 30, 1979. My mother’s name is Erica Arnecia Brown (Shepherd). My grandparents were Columbus and Lula Brown of Williamston, NC. I knew and was close to my great-great Grandmother Lucy Shepherd until her passing… and my uncle Joe, as well as my uncle Glenn for many years (circa Perry Street, Williamston, NC). Thanks to my Aunt Rosie. I just wanted to say thanks for the love my Father had for me. After 30 years I finally had the great honor and privilege of speaking with him for a few weeks. Such a healing time. I got the opportunity to informally introduce him to his youngest grandson, Cory Bryant Thomas (now 18) and my oldest son, Jermaine Ali Holloway (soon to be 28). From what I know, they are the only grand-boys he had during his lifetime. By happenstance I found this site and found out my Father passed away. I would have loved to have seen him. He would be proud. Much love to Mrs. Betty, and my brother and sister… and to Tommy Jr. And Calvin… I see you. ;) With much love and respect… McKinsey