Edna Shepherd

Edna Shepherd, 83 was born July 14,1931in Texarkana,Texas.

She passed from this life into the arms of her heavenly father on May 7, 2015 in Texarkana. She was preceded in death by her husband, Leon Shepherd.

Survivors include two sons and one daughter-in-law, Leon H. Shepherd of Los Angeles Calif. and Michael and Brenette Shepherd of Texarkana,Texas; one grandson Mason Shepherd of Texarkana; one sister Edith Jackson of Fort Worth,Texas; one brother-in-law Wallace Osborne of Fremont, Calif. and a number of cousins,nieces and nephews.

Edna spent the majority of her life living on family property that was farmed by her late father,William Smith. Through the years,this fertile land has been extensively used for pecan and cattle production.

Education was the backbone of her professional life. She obtained both her bachelor and master degrees in education from Prairie View A&M University. Edna began her teaching career in the late 1950’s as an elementary teacher. After spending about 30 years as a classroom teacher,she obtained her Mid-Management Certification and spent the remainder of her career as an assistant principal at Texas High School. Her work at the high school was noteworthy because she was the first woman to work in that capacity in the history of Texas High School. In 1993, she retired after more than 37 years of service as an educator.

Edna Shepherd maintained a very active lifestyle after her retirement. She was appointed by then Governor Ann Richards to serve on the Red River Authority. She also served as a member of the board of directors for the Texarkana Regional Arts and Humanities Council, the Conifer Girl Scout Council, Dunbar Alumni Association and the Volunteer Center. She tutored students every week for the Texarkana Literacy Council for many years. Edna was a proud member of the local chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority.

A consistent theme throughout her life was her strong relationship with the Lord. Until her death, she was an active member of Macedonia Baptist Church. She served in many capacities over the years, while her favorite work was as a Sunday school teacher.

Edna touched the lives of many people in the community throughout her life,while at the same time being very devoted to her family.

Services will be 11a.m. Thursday at Macedonia Baptist Church with Rev. Alvin Gay officiating. Burial will be in Red Springs Cemetery under the direction of Haynes Mortuary. Visitation will be 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.