Allen Wesley Shepherd, age 82, went to his heavenly home on January 18, 2021. He passed away at his home surrounded by his loving family.
Allen was born on February 26,1938 in Bristol, VA to the late Clarence and Cornelia Shepherd. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Naomi Tester Shepherd; his daughter, Angela Ellis (John); his son, David Shepherd (Kyra); four grandchildren, Annie Poole (Brian); Kyle Ellis; Zachary Shepherd (April); Jacob Shepherd (Nicki) and two great-grandchildren, Parker and Hattie Poole. He is preceded in death by his grandson, Joshua Shepherd. He is also survived by one brother, Roger Shepherd (Linda) and one sister, Carol Mullikin (Ron).
Allen was employed with the United States Postal Service for 41 years until his retirement in 1998. After his retirement, he was employed by Brookfield Postal Uniforms for 13 years. Before working for USPS, he was employed by the Bristol Herald Courier as a sports writer. In 1955, he became the official scorer for the Appalachian Minor League baseball team and served as a member of the Board of Directors until 2008. His love of sports also included playing basketball for the Virginia High Bearcats and the King College Tornadoes. He was also a coach for Little League Baseball and a referee for the local high school’s basketball programs for many years.
Allen was an avid amateur radio operator (WC4L). He was a member of the MARS and ARRL programs for over 60 years.
He grew up attending Grace Baptist Church where he served as a Deacon, Sunday School Superintendent, and choir member. At the time of his death, he was a member of Victory Baptist Church.
The family wishes to convey a special thank you to Caris for the extraordinary care and support they provided to Allen during his last few months.
The funeral service will be held 6:00 p.m. Wednesday, January 20, 2021 in the Weaver Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Dennis Burnette officiating assisted by Dr. Austin Cook. The family will receive friends from 5 until 6 p.m. prior to the service. Interment will be held 11:00 a.m. Thursday, January 21, 2021 at Mountain View Cemetery. Honorary Pallbearers are Zachary Shepherd, Jacob Shepherd, Kyle Ellis, Brian Poole, John Wittick, Michael Shepherd, Annie Poole and the Members of Branch 807 of the Bristol VA-TN Post Office. Those planning to attend the service will be required to wear a mask and practice social distancing. Services may be viewed by livestreaming at www.oneroomstreaming.com Event ID: WeaverFH Password: JOQSVE
In lieu of flowers, the family is asking that you honor Allen’s memory by donating to Victory Baptist Church, 11101 Island Rd, Bristol, VA 24202 or the charity of their choice.
Online condolences may be registered at www.weaverfuneralhome.net. Arrangements have been made with Weaver Funeral Home and Cremation Services.
Naomi, I am so sorry about your loss. My prayers are with you and your family.
Leota
Naomi and family, Mr. Allen had a deep love and devotion for the Lord, he’ll be sorely missed but we’ll see him again in Heaven someday 💙. We continue to pray during this difficult time.
Love in Christ, Walter and Linda Duty
So sorry for your loss. Allen and family have been wonderful neighbors for many years. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
The family is in my thoughts and prayers
So sorry for your loss. Prayers from Chapel Hill NC.
I have known Allen for a long time as a carrier, Vehicle operations and with Brookfield. He will be missed for sure. My prayers and sympathies to the family. I reside in Florida now but may attend the service virtually. May God Bless.
Sincerely Barry and Sherri Hinkle
So sorry to hear of Allen’s passing. We had a lot of enjoyable moments at the ballpark. Your family will be in our prayers.
Angela and family, So very sorry for the loss of your Dad, husband, grandfather, and friend. Keeping you all in our thoughts. Do hope cherished thoughts, photographs, and memories help sustain you at this very hard time. Our deepest sympathy, Joan & Jerry
Angela and Family,
So very sorry for the loss of your Dad, husband, grandfather and friend. Keeping you in our thoughts. Do hope cherished memories,photos, and stories help sustain you at this very difficult time.
Our deepest sympathy, Joan & Jerry
I remember Allen at Grace Baptist Church. He was always smiling and friendly and active with the youth. My condolences to the family. I am sure you will miss him greatly.
Matt & I worked with Allen for many years. So sorry for your loss. Praying for comfort for the family. As requested, we’re sending a contribution to St. Jude & America Cancer in his honor as charity of choice.
Deepest Sympathy & prayers,
Deborah & Matt Acree