DeVera Walston Shepherd departed this earthly life in the early morning hours on Sunday, April 6, 2025 at the home of her son in Clinton, Maryland after a lengthy illness.

DeVera was born on October 16, 1941 in Newport News, Virginia to the late Elisha and Selma (Wheeler) Walston.  She attended schools in Newport News, Va.  It was at Huntington High School that she met the love of her life the late Ulysses J. (Shep) Shepherd, Sr. They married and were blessed with three wonderful children.  Shep was her lifelong soulmate.

DeVera worked at Newport News Shipyard for over 40 years where she developed long lasting friendships.  After she and Shep retired they traveled to many destinations.

Devera enjoyed her grandchildren, Sydney and Michael, especially during her favorite time of the year, Christmas when she spoiled them with many gifts. She took pride in being an active and devoted grandparent. During the summertime, she and Shep gladly volunteered to babysit their grandchildren, always ensuring their days were filled with love, laughter, plenty of home-cooked meals, cook-outs, and trips (including cultural experiences).

We all can attest that she did it all with grace, warmth, and an unfailing sense of style. She never stepped outside looking anything less than "fly"; radiating her confidence in every step she took and every moment she created.

DeVera was preceded in death by her parents, Elisha and Selma Walston, Ulysses J. Shepherd, Sr.(husband), Stephanie Shepherd Hamlin (daughter), Charles Hamlin ( son-in-law), Ulysses J. Shepherd, Jr. (son), and Ann Walston Shroud (sister).

She leaves to cherish her memory her son Rodney M. Shepherd and wife Cassandra (Sandy), Shepherd, Sydney Shepherd (granddaughter), C. Michael Hamlin (grandson), Ernestine (Tina) Walston Raggio (sister) and husband Joseph Raggio, Loren M. Raggio (nephew), Bernice (Bunny) Glenn (sister-in-law), beloved friends Joyce (Bootsie) Ponton, Carole DeRouen, and many relatives and friends.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held 12 noon, Friday, April 18, 2025 at Sixth Mount Zion Baptist Temple, 3100 Butternut Drive, Hampton, VA 23666.

Please keep her family in your thoughts and prayers.  O. H. Smith & Son Funeral Home is honored to serve the family.