Alfred D. (Sol) "Pappy" Shepherd

Alfred D. (Sol) “Pappy” Shepherd, age 91, of Middlesboro, KY, went to be with the Lord peacefully, surrounded by his family on Saturday, July 12, 2025, after a short respiratory illness. He was born May 18, 1934, the son of the late Robert and Ollie Adams Shepherd.

A dedicated and faithful member of the Missionary Baptist faith, Alfred found solace as part of the Cannon Creek Missionary Baptist Church in Pineville, Kentucky. His life was characterized by unwavering commitment and hard work, particularly in his notable career in coal mining, where he dedicated over thirty-three years. Additionally, he spent five years surveying and fifteen years with Hickman’s Lumber Company, demonstrating his diverse skills and steadfast work ethic.

Alfred was more than just a tireless worker; he was an avid gardener whose nurturing spirit was evident in his vibrant garden, often producing some of the largest vegetables around. He had an infectious personality, known for captivating audiences with his storytelling that transported listeners back to cherished days gone by, as well as his love for singing silly old bluegrass songs. Alfred embodied a servant's heart, always ready to lend a helping hand to those in need, earning him the affection and respect of many in his community.

As a devoted husband, father, brother, grandfather, great-grandfather, and uncle, Alfred cherished his family and friends, always striving to bring smiles to their faces. His loved ones fondly referred to him as "Pappy," a name that reflects his love, dedication, and unwavering spirit. Alfred will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him, but there is solace in the knowledge that he no longer suffers.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife of 63 years, Mable Shepherd; son, Henry (Tommy) Shepherd; daughter, Martha (Jeannie) Shepherd; grandson, Anthony (Shane) Sexton; siblings, Doc Shepherd, Jackie Shepherd, Albert Shepherd, Dorothy Cline, John Henry Shepherd and Annie Deeb.

He is survived by his daughter, Barbara and husband, Sam Hall of Tazewell, TN; sister, Susie Mabe of Fort Waye, Indiana; grandchildren, Kristin (Krissy) and husband, Bradley Carroll of Speedwell, TN, Tommy Lee and wife Andrea Shepherd of Middlesboro, KY, Angel Broadwell of London, KY, Jessica Kimberlin of North Platte, NE and Shawn Shepherd of Middlesboro, KY; great grandchildren, Jake and Kinsley Carroll, Henry Michael Shepherd and June Hupfer; and a host nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

The family of Alfred D. (Sol) “Pappy” Shepherd will receive friends from 12:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m., on Saturday, July 19, 2025, at the Cawood Funeral Home Chapel, Middlesboro, KY. Funeral services will follow at 2:00 p.m. with Reverend Ronnie Wynn and John Hall presiding. Music will be provided by Shirley Partin and LaHonia Barton.   

Graveside services will immediately follow at Green Hills Memorial Gardens Mausoleum, Middlesboro, KY, with with Reverend Mike Sutton presiding. Pallbearers will be Tommy Lee Shepherd, Bradley Carroll, Jake Carroll, Murphy Buell Jr, Kevin Barnett, Larry Smith and Ian Smith. Honorable pallbearer will be Sam Hall.

Alfred’s legacy of kindness, laughter, and dedication will continue to inspire those who remember him, not only for his time with us but also for the many memories that will continue to warm our hearts. His wisdom will guide us, his laughter will echo in our memories, and his love will endure forever. May he rest in peace, embraced by the love he so freely gave during his extraordinary journey through life.

Online register book and condolences are available at www.cawoodfh.com.

All arrangements for Alfred D. (Sol) “Pappy” Shepherd are under the care of Cawood Funeral Home, Middlesboro, KY.