Tabitha North

Tabitha North, born on September 30, 1971, in Carrollton, Georgia, to Brenda Sue North Reese and the late Kelly Reese. She peacefully departed this earthly life on March 14, 2026, at Tanner Medical Center.

She was preceded in death by her father Kelly Reese, her devoted companion the late Jerome Sheppard, and her brother, the late Reico North.

Tabitha was truly a light to her family-radiating love through every space she entered. While her outward demeanor reflected a sense of business and strength, once in her presence, you quickly recognized that she was one of the most caring and genuine individuals you could encounter. She had a remarkable way of transferring energy, uplifting those around her with her presence while absorbing the needs of others with compassion and care. Throughout her life, she continuously reflected light, offering warmth and comfort that made everyone around her feel seen, valued, and deeply loved.

She was the heart behind many cherished family gatherings, thoughtfully organizing events that brought everyone together. Tabitha made it her mission to ensure that everyone was taken care of, often placing the needs of others before her own. She was affectionately known as the family manager, organizer, secretary and treasurer.

Her love poured especially deeply into her nieces and nephews. She was more than an aunt-she was a safe place, a listening ear, and a constant source of encouragement. She found joy in being present, faithfully attending their athletic and academic events, celebrating their accomplishments, and walking alongside them through life's moments, both big and small.

Tabitha was a proud Carrollton High School Trojan alumna of the Class of 1990. A former basketball cheerleader, she carried Trojan pride throughout her life. She was an avid supporter of all Trojan athletics and founded the "Trojans Mom Club" during Malik's high school years, a tradition that continues today with annual participation in homecoming activities.

Tabitha's light extended beyond her family into her church, where she served faithfully and with dedication. She was an active member who contributed her time and gifts through the Finance Committee, Events Committee, and as a youth leader, helping to guide, support, and inspire the next generation.

Tabitha was also a friend to many, cultivating meaningful relationships that began in childhood and continued to grow throughout her life. Her genuine spirit and unwavering loyalty allowed her to build lasting connections, leaving an imprint on the hearts of all who knew her.

Her dedication was evident in her professional life as well. Tabitha was a committed employee of Venture/Empire Distributors, where she worked faithfully and diligently. Even after her diagnosis of cervical cancer in November 2023, she continued to show up with strength and resilience, remaining devoted to her work until she eventually took a leave of absence in February of this year.

Though diagnosed with cervical cancer in November 2023, her light never dimmed-instead, it grew brighter. The light of God radiated within her as she faced her diagnosis with unwavering faith, bravely, faithfully, and wholeheartedly declaring that God was able to heal. Her life became a powerful reflection of strength, hope, and divine trust.

Her legacy is one of love in action-a radiant light that continues to reflect in the lives she touched, offering warmth, comfort, and enduring hope.

On Saturday, March 14, 2026, Tabitha received her final call. Left to cherish her precious memories are her sons, Malik (Karla) Sheppard of Carrollton, GA, Treylon Sheppard of Nashville, Tennessee and Javon Sheppard of Bremen, GA; her daughter, Dajah Sheppard of the home and three beloved grandchildren, Lux, Luna, and Lias Sheppard, all of Carrollton, GA. She is also survived by her mother, Brenda Sue Reese of Carrollton, GA; her brother, Dr. Trent (Toya) North of Douglasville, GA; her sister, Fathia Reese of Carrollton, GA; and her sister-in-law, Tricia North of Douglasville, GA. Her memory will be cherished by her nephews, Marcus (Brittney) Reese of Carrollton, GA, Jaylan Thomas of Macon, GA and Jerrard (Diamond) Tarrant of Carrollton, GA; and her nieces, Reicia North of Douglasville, GA, Alecia North of Smyrna, GA, and Alexis (Dylan) Parham of New York. She also leaves a godson, Trey Chivers, and a god-granddaughter, Aubrey Chivers. She is further survived by her in-laws, Evelyn (Patrick) Mays of Bowdon, GA, and Tabitha (Anthony) Chism of Carrollton, GA; two special aunts, Darleen Stargen and Teresa (Ronnie) Perkins of Carrollton, GA; a host of other relatives on both sides of her family; and her devoted church family, Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church, whom she loved dearly.

Celebration of Life Service will be held on Saturday March 21, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Tabernacle Baptist Church, 150 Tabernacle Drive Carrollton, GA 30117, Dr. Stephen V. Allen, Pastor; Pastor Christopher Bonner, Eulogist. Interment will follow at Carrollton City Cemetery. The viewing for Ms. North will be held on Friday March 20, 2026 from 3-5 PM, with the family receiving friends from 3-5 PM, with the family receiving friends from 5-7 PM at Mt Zion Baptist Church, 112 Mount Zion Blvd, Carrollton, GA 30117, Pastor Christopher Bonner. Final arrangements entrusted to Willie A. Watkins Funeral Home Carrollton Chapel. 770-836-0044.