Virginia Allen "Ginny" Shepherd

Sarah, and family. I am so sorry for your loss. Your mother was such a great person and I always loved seeing and talking to her at church. I have missed seeing her smile and hearing her laugh. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this difficult time.

Mrs. Shepherd first welcomed me as a guest of University Baptist when I was a first year law student at UVA in 1983. Invitations to her home for Sunday afternoon visits, along with home cooked meals, soon followed. What a wonderful break from the rigors of law school! Like so many others in her life, I grew to love her dearly.

One of my cherished memories of Mrs. Shepherd occurred during the summer I stayed in Charlottesville to study for the bar exam after my graduation. Knowing I needed a break from my studies, Mrs. Shepherd invited me out for an "all expense paid" evening of entertainment, and I accepted her offer. The two of us, along with a bus load of senior citizens, proceeded to Charlestown, West Virginia for a trip to a horse racing track. Mrs. Shepherd handed me ten dollars to use for placing a bet. She told me that on her first trip to the track, a friend gave her the same amount for her first bet, she placed it on a horse named "Ralph Sampson," and won!

We maintained our friendship, and years later she attended my wedding in Abingdon, Virginia, which meant so much to me. My wife soon grew very fond of her as well. Saddened to learn of her passing, we know that our loss is Heaven's gain. She will remain in our hearts forever.

Sarah, Judy, Carolyn and family, you are in our thoughts and prayers.

Sarah,
I am so sorry for your loss. I remember your mother's big smile and her enthusiasm for all of her family. I know you have many wonderful memories of her

Memories are flooding my thoughts today. The private times of one-on-one visits to "see the doctor" from the mid seventies to 2000. Ours was a relationship that did not end when we left Charlottesville. Her voice was always a boost to me over the years. Her personality was a definitely bold presence wherever she was. Her life was 'painted with bold strokes and punctuated with bright stars--never to be forgotten. I loved Virginia--and still do. Lewis Barnett, 4734 Talleybrook Dr., NW; Kennesaw, GA 30152

Dear Shepherd family,
I worked with Jack at Owens & Minor and knew Virginia quite well. What a classy lady, and a classy couple. I am glad she had a good life and I hope all of you are well. sincerely, Bill Abbitt

Carolyn, Judy, Sarah and extended family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. May it be some comfort to know how much I always enjoyed seeing your mother and having her read to my first graders.It was the highlight of each week for me and the children loved her so. Virginia was a dear lady with a healthy sense of humor- she enriched my life by knowing her. God bless you all. Warmly, Paula Johnson

Judy and family,
May God bless you and hold you close at the loss of your mom. Judy, you have always been there for your mom. Know in your heart that you have been a wonderful daughter.
Love, Martha and Rick