Nelson Shepherd

1944 - 2021

Nelson Shepherd, 77, of Salisbury, passed away Saturday, Nov. 13, 2021. He was born Jan. 5, 1944, in Rockwell to the late Ernest Lee Shepherd and Virgie Ludwig Shepherd. Mr. Shepherd graduated from East Rowan High School in 1962, attended Appalachian State University, and retired from Duke Energy where he worked at the Buck Steam Station. He was active in scouting since age 12, earning the rank of Eagle Scout and was awarded the Wood Badge and his treasured Silver Beaver; he also served as Scoutmaster, a Round Table Commissioner, and was part of the District Training Team. Mr. Shepherd was a lifelong member of St. Matthew's Lutheran Church in Salisbury where he was active with the church choir and served on the History Committee. He was a charter member of Pooletown Fire Department. Mr. Shepherd enjoyed his genealogy work and had just began writing his memoir. He loved RV'ing, traveling, living in Florida for 16 years, fishing, and computers. He especially loved his two grandchildren, becoming a UNC Tarheel fan when his grandson attended there. In addition to his parents, Ralph was preceded in death by his brother, Ernest Ray Shepherd; and sister, Linda Dale Shepherd. Mr. Shepherd is survived by his wife, Eula “Tennie” Long Shepherd, whom he married in 1964; three children, Julie Leonhardt of Lincolnton, Jennifer Shepherd of Hickory, and Matt Shepherd of Raleigh; grandchildren, Wesley Leonhardt of Chapel Hill and Katelyn Leonhardt of Lincolnton. Service: A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 17, in St. Matthew's Lutheran Church Cemetery. Out of respect for the family, it is asked that those attending the service please wear a facial covering. Memorials: In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Matthew's Lutheran Church, 9275 Bringle Ferry Road, Salisbury, NC 28146. Powles Staton Funeral Home of Rockwell is assisting the Shepherd family. Online condolences may be made at www.powlesfuneralhome.com.