James “Snookie” Shepherd

James Edward Shepherd, son of the late Bennie and Bernice Shepherd, was born on January 18, 1947 in Caroline County, Virginia.

James, affectionately known as “Snookie” and “Shep” accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior at an early age and joined Grants Hill Baptist Church.  He recently became a member of Macedonia Baptist Church in Colonial Beach, VA to attend church services with his family. 

He obtained his education in Westmoreland County Public Schools.  In May 1967, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and successfully completed his tour of duty in September 1970.  After serving in the U.S. Army, he was gainfully employed as an Automotive Mechanic with the Naval Surface Warfare Center in Dahlgren, VA for 30 years.  He retired from NSWC in January 2009.

James departed this life on Thursday, June 29, 2023, at his residence. He was proceeded in death by his parents, his brother Bennie Shepherd Jr., his sister Shirley Tompkins (Junius), grandson De’Shon Brown and great grandson Braydon Brown. 

His hobbies included racing motorcycles and working on vehicles. His favorite past-time was sitting on the porch waving at EVERY vehicle that went by.  

He was an avid Washington Commanders (formally Washington Redskins) fan and he adored spending time with family and friends.  He loved dining out and three of his favorite places were Angelo’s, Cracker Barrel and Metro Diner.  He enjoyed music and one of his favorite country songs was “Tennessee Whiskey” by Chris Stapleton. 
James was united in Holy matrimony to Virginia Hickman on October 5, 1967.  From this union five children were born. 

Those left to reflect and cherish his memories are his loving and devoted wife of 55 years Virginia Shepherd; one daughter, Marsha Buckner (John) of King George, VA; six sons, James Wendell Hickman, Tony Shepherd (Annie), Douglas Shepherd (Tara) all of Colonial Beach, VA, Elgin Shepherd (Alisa) of King George, VA, Craig Shepherd and Melvin Turner (Angela) of Montross, VA; four brothers-in-law, James Hickman, Frank Hickman (Toni), Joseph Hickman (Marie), Allen Hickman (Mamie); two sisters-in-law, Barbara Brown (Lacy) and Blanche Hickman; 14 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. 

Special thanks to his caregivers: Betsy Lofton, Yadira Wilson and Brenda Turner.

Funeral services for James “Snookie” Shepherd will be held on Friday, July 7 at 12 Noon in the sanctuary of the Macedonia Baptist Church, 1081 Macedonia Lane, Colonial Beach, Virginia.

Interment will follow in the Macedonia Baptist Church Cemetery.

Remains may be viewed from 10AM until service time on Friday, July 7 at Macedonia Baptist Church.

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