Faye Shepherd, 89 of Jackson, Ky went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, April 12, 2026 at the Greg and Noreen Wells Hospice Care Center in Hazard, Ky surrounded by family. She was born in Lunah, Ky, December 31, 1936 to the late Kennie and Nancy Stacy Carpenter.
The life of Faye Shepherd was long, full, and truly blessed. She loved her family with all her heart and cherished her friends nearly as much. To her, there were no strangers—only friends she hadn’t yet met.
First and foremost, she was a devoted mother. Nothing in her life meant more than raising her children and being a loving wife to their Dad. She believed deeply in faith and made it a priority to raise her family in church, giving them the strongest foundation possible for life.
Faye gave selflessly to her community. From the very beginning of the Kentucky River Medical Center, she volunteered there for many years. In her younger days, she worked for the University of Kentucky Extension Office, always finding ways to serve others. She later worked at the Prestolite Wire plant, and Rose Brothers Department Store, continuing her strong work ethic and dedication.
Faye and her husband Raleigh were blessed to travel together with Richard Jett Tours in Campton, creating wonderful memories across many states. They also shared a passion for Western Square Dancing and were instrumental in bringing it to Breathitt County. Together, they traveled and competed with their group, building lasting friendships along the way.
Born and raised in Breathitt County, Faye never wished to call anywhere else home. It was where her roots were, where her heart belonged, and where her legacy will forever remain.
She is survived by her children: Ray (Carol) Shepherd, Rita (Larry) Burnat, Pam (Charles) Noble, Sheila (Jim) Mullins, Greg (Sharon) Shepherd. Grandchildren: Shawn (Jamie) Combs, Chris Combs, Kendra Napier, Kenzie Noble, Charles Noble, Jr., Jessica (Nate) Ritchie, Beth (Chris) Helton, Honorary grandson, John Molpus, Jr. Great Grandchildren: Addison Wright, Skylin Combs, Wes Noble, Aaron Goins, Parker & Peyton Miller, Carter & Colton Noble, Josie Kate & Tucker Ritchie, Luke & Lara Kay Helton. Her brother Dwight (Teresa) Carpenter, sisters Jacqueline Carpenter and Judy (Bill) Smith.
Preceded in death besides her parents was her husband of 67 years, Raleigh Shepherd, her grandson Bryan Shepherd, brothers: John, Floyd, Bill, Squire, Billy, Kennie Jr., and Don Carpenter. Sisters: Doshia, Dora, Dovie, Ida, Sue, Sarah and Marie. And her very special friend, Lois Hunt.
Visitation for Faye will be held from 5:00 - 9:00 PM on Tuesday, April 14, 2026 at the Breathitt Funeral Home. Her Funeral will begin at 10:00 AM Wednesday, April 15, 2026 with Carl McIntosh and John Duggins officiating. Burial will follow in the Jackson Cemetery with Shawn Combs, Chris Helton, Luke Helton, Parker Miller, Peyton Miller and Nate Ritchie serving as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers are Bryan Shepherd, Chris Combs and Dwight Carpenter.
Donations in Faye's memory can be made to the Greg & Noreen Wells Bluegrass Hospice Care Center in Hazard, Kentucky 41701.
1. Proverbs 31:28–29
“Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: ‘Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all.’”
Obituary written with love by her family.
