MSG Retired Shepherd F. White, 88, of Mathews, departed this life Tuesday, Jan. 26, 2016, to be with the Lord. 

“Shep,” as he was affectionately called by family and friends, was a faithful servant and served as the chair of the Deacon’s Ministry at First Baptist Church, Mathews.

He served 29½ years in the U.S. Army (Bronze Star) which included three combat tours in Vietnam. He also retired from Civil Service and served as chaplain of Hands Across Mathews. Shep earned an associate’s degree in Applied Science–Automotive Technology and Peninsula Vocational Technical Education Certifications in Air Conditioning and Refrigeration and Basic Electricity. 

He was preceded in death by his son, Anthony.

He leaves to cherish his memories, his wife, Gladys; children, Diane Griffin (Joe), Michael White (Jackie), Janet White, Carolyn Lester (Raymond), Shepherd White Jr. (Sabena) and Chanda White; three stepchildren, Irma Thomas, Kevin Thomas (Marletha) and Robert “Ken” Thomas; grandchildren, Keisha, Keyona, Kendra, Volanda, Jacleen, Maurice, Anthony, Amanda, April, Kavik, Katrina, Marcus, Sabrina and Shepherd III; stepgrandson, Tyler; great-grandchildren; brother, James White (Florine); sisters and brothers-in-law and a host of other relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 6, 2016, at First Baptist Church, 9654 Buckley Hall Road, Mathews. Viewing will be held from 6-7 p.m. and the family will receive friends from 7-8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 5, 2016, at the church. Burial will be in the church cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please send your donations to First Baptist Church, P.O. Box 84, Mathews, Va. 23109 for pew Bibles in memory of Deacon Shepherd White.

Arrangements by Forrest Brothers Funeral Home, Hudgins.