With heavy hearts and deep sorrow, we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Deborah Sue Shepherd, who departed this life unexpectedly on June 9, 2025, at the age of 62. Deborah was a devoted mother to Hilarie Shepherd and Derrick Shepherd, and the cherished widow of the late Richard Charles Shepherd, with whom she shared a life of love, partnership, and enduring commitment.

Deborah was the heart of our family — a nurturing spirit whose kindness, strength, and unconditional love touched everyone around her. She gave her children a foundation built on compassion, wisdom, and unwavering support. Her legacy lives on in the values she instilled, the memories she created, and the love that continues to surround us.

She was a woman of quiet grace and steady faith, known for her warm smile, gentle words, and deep empathy. Whether through her comforting presence or thoughtful actions, Deborah brought light to every room and solace to those in need.

She now joins her beloved husband, Richard, in eternal peace — reunited in a love that transcends this life.  In addition to her husband, she is preceded in death by her father, Everette Lee Gay.

Deborah is survived by her daughter, Hilarie Shepherd; her son, Derrick Shepherd, and his wife, Kara Shepherd; her mother, Julia Nell Gay; and her siblings: Donna Gay, Sylvia Lanpolsaen and husband Pi Lanpolsaen, and Randy Gay. She also leaves behind three grandchildren — Addison, Ethan, and Abigail Shepherd — as well as several nieces and nephews.

Deborah Sue Shepherd will be profoundly missed by all who knew and loved her — her children, extended family, and friends who became like family. Her memory will remain a blessing and a guiding light.

A celebration of Deborah's life will be held on Friday, June 13, 2025. The viewing and visitation with her family will begin at 9:00 a.m. at Liberty Grove Baptist Church Cemetery in Wrightsville, GA, with a graveside service to follow at 10:00 o'clock a. m. with Pastor Dwayne Clements officiating.

Flowers may be sent to Sammons Funeral Home in Soperton, Georgia.

May she rest in peace, forever in our hearts.

Please share a memory, leave a condolence message and sign the online guest register at www.sammonsfuneralhome.com

SAMMONS FUNERAL HOME, Family Owned and Operated Since 1917.

912-529-4411 or 478-455-0671