Martha Priester Shepherd

Martha Priester Shepherd, 69, of Mabelvale, passed away Wednesday, November 24, 2010. She was born October 1, 1941 in Sheldon, South Carolina to the late John Hugh Priester and the late Mildred Gatch Piester. She is preceded in death by her husband, Paul Edward Shepherd, Sr. Martha was retired from the Little Rock School District as a cafeteria manager. She was a wonderful wife, mother and friend and was strong in her Christian faith. She was not defined by what she did but by who she was to so many friends and family who loved her. Martha is survived by two children, Paul Edward Shepherd, Jr. (Marcia) of Lowell, Massachusetts and Paula Shepherd Beasse (Chris) of Mabelvale; one grandson, Logan; one sister, Nelmays Priester Connelly as well as many nieces, nephews and other extended family and friend. The family wishes a special thank you to the doctors, nurses and support staff at the Little Rock Hematology and Oncology Clinic. The love you gave us during Mom's treatments did not go unnoticed. Under the care of Dr. Mendelsohn for several years, he reminded her that God was her Great Physician during her many years battling cancer. Also, a special thank you to Dr. Lee Walker and Dr. Shane Kimball. You called Mom a miracle in how she fought her illnesses with candor and unending strength. Visitation will be from 2-4 p.m. on Sunday, November 28th. The funeral service will be at 2 p.m. Monday, November 29th, at Griffin Leggett Healey and Roth Funeral Home, 5800 W. 12th Street, Little Rock, Ark. Graveside services will be held at a later date at the Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society. To sign Mrs. Shepherd's on line guest book, please visit www.griffinleggettheleyroth.com.