Joyce Banks Shepherd

Joyce Banks Shepherd, 88, of Gainesville, GA and formerly of Burnsville, NC passed away on April 20, 2010. A native of Burnsville, NC and long time Statesville, NC resident, she was the daughter of the late Dorothy Ayers Banks and John Burdett Banks. Mrs. Shepherd graduated from Asheville Normal Teachers College (Biltmore, NC) in 1942. She was a beloved mother, friend and elementary school teacher. She was a staunch Republican and was so before being a conservative Republican gained popularity. Mrs. Shepherd was a member of First Baptist Church in Burnsville, NC. She is survived by her beloved husband of 66 years, Ralph Franklin Shepherd formerly of Burnsville, NC; sons, John (Elaine) Shepherd of Fort Mill, SC and Robert (Kari) Shepherd of Cumming, GA; grandchildren, Stefani and Joshua Shepherd of Cumming, GA; step-grandchildren, Eric Cook of Honolulu, HI and Ashley (Kelley) Cook of Fort Mill, SC; step-great-grandchildren, Gabriella and Christian Cook of Fort Mill, SC. Mrs. Shepherd was a loyal friend to all and had many friendships that spanned 50 years or greater. She always enjoyed having a cup of coffee and cake with a good friend. Her hobbies included reading, gardening, flower arranging, and needlework. A memorial prayer service is planned for Saturday, May 22nd at 2:00 pm at the First Baptist Church in Burnsville, NC. In lieu of flowers, the family request that donations be made to the Yancey County Library, 18 Town Square, Burnsville, NC 28714-2933. Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home & Crematory, 150 Sawnee Drive, Cumming, GA 30040 (770) 886-9899