William Russell Shepherd Jr. of Whiteville, NC passed on October 9, 2025, at Columbus Regional Healthcare System. He was born in Bladen County on January 31, 1945. The son of William Russell Shepherd, Sr. and Missy Horne.

He is survived by his wife, Elaine Shepherd; son, William Russel Shepherd III (Hope); daughters, Penny Elaine Shepherd (Bobby), Hazel Denise Price (Jimmy); grandchildren, Kasey Barnhill (Tanner), Madison Shepherd, Alexis Shepherd, Chase Tyson, Elaina Price, Wesley Price, Logan Bradley, Riley Shepherd; great grandchildren, Oaklyn Barnhill, Cooper Barnhill.

He was preceded in death by his son, Leland Scott Shepherd; sisters, Elda Bowen, Russelene Conti, Joann Gupton, Penny Jo Shepherd.

His funeral service will be held on Thursday, October 16, 2025, at 3:00 pm, at Macedonia Original Freewill Baptist Church with Rev. Jamie Ward officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior. Burial will be at the Macedonia Original Freewill Baptist Church cemetery. 

Online condolences may be made at www.peacockfuneralhome.net