He came into this world March 27, 1960 weighing only three pounds and five ounces. He would fit in the palm of your hand. He had a complete blood transfusion when only a few hours old, and spent the next 90 days in a incubator, determined to live. His name was Rodney Henry Shepherd. The fight that began at three pounds five ounces lasted for 55 years, 11 months and 15 days when he went to be with Jesus on March 12, 2016. He was born again and spirit-filled.

He was preceded in death by his son Rodney A. Shepherd or "Little Rod," who was 10 years old at passing. He is survived by his parents Gene and Barbara Shepherd, and brother Randy Shepherd, his daughter Candis R. Shepherd and son Joshua D. Shepherd and nine grandchildren. A host of other relatives and friends.