Edith Martin Shepherd

Edith Martin Epps Shepherd, lovingly known by many as “Big Sis,” entered into eternal rest on May 9, 2026, at the age of 85.

Born on September 22, 1940, in Virgilina, Virginia, Edith lived a life defined by love, dedication, faith, and unwavering devotion to her family and community. She carried a warm spirit and generous heart that touched everyone, fortunate enough to know her. Edith was also proud of her Sappony heritage and held a deep appreciation for the traditions, history, and enduring strength of her tribe.

Edith devoted 61 years of service to the same company, originally known as General Finance Corporation, where she worked as a Customer Service Loan Representative. Greeting and helping customers was the highlight of her daily responsibilities, and through the decades she had the privilege of assisting multiple generations of families. She found great joy in training new employees and took immense pride in watching many of them grow into Branch Manager and District Manager roles. Her work ethic, compassion, and commitment left a lasting impact on both coworkers and customers alike.

A faithful servant, Edith was a devoted member of Branch's Baptist Church in Richmond, Virginia, where she faithfully served in many roles that allowed her to help and encourage others. Her faith was the foundation of her life, and she demonstrated Christ’s love through kindness, compassion, and service to those around her.

Edith also expressed her love for others through her cooking. She delighted in preparing dishes to share with neighbors and co-workers, and her famous chicken salad, along with her delicious chicken and dumplings, were requested often and enjoyed by many. Her dirt cake was always devoured and quickly became another favorite among family and friends.

Above all else, Edith cherished her family. Her granddaughters were truly the pride and joy of her life. She prayed faithfully for them and celebrated every milestone and accomplishment. Her great-granddaughter, Lucy, was the bright light of her world. Edith delighted in sharing stories about Lucy with anyone who called or visited, always speaking of her with immense love and pride.

Edith was preceded in death by her husbands, Robin Douglas Epps and Leslie Cecil Shepherd; her beloved son, Douglas Neal Epps; her parents, James Howard Martin and Mary Sue Martin; her sister, Phyllis Martin; her brother, Ray Martin; and her son-in-law, Edwin Will.

She leaves behind to cherish her memory her loving daughter, Arlene Will; granddaughters, Robyn Nay (James) and Melanie Epps (Cole); and her treasured great-granddaughter, Lucy James Nay.

She is also survived by her sisters, Wina Epps (Tommy) and Sarah Kennedy (Donald); her brother, Sam Martin (Fay); her sister-in-law, Bobbie Martin; and her brother, affectionately known as “the baby,” Kirt Martin (Laurie).

Edith shared an unbreakable bond with her siblings and their spouses. She treasured each of them deeply and was profoundly grateful for their love, laughter, humor, and constant support throughout her life.

She also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, and their children, whom she loved deeply and unconditionally. She took special joy in helping name several of them, a reflection of the close and loving relationships she nurtured throughout her life.

The family would also like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at August Healthcare for the exceptional care Edith received during the year prior to her passing. Their compassion, patience, persistence, professionalism, encouragement, and genuine love for Edith were truly a blessing to both her and the family. They were, in every sense, “gold medalists” in caregiving, and the family is deeply grateful to each person who loved and cared for her daily.

Edith’s kindness, wisdom, humor, and steadfast love will be missed beyond measure, but the legacy she leaves behind will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

A celebration of life service and reception will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at Branch’s Baptist Church, 3400 Broad Rock Blvd, Richmond, VA 23234.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Edith’s name may be made to the Sappony Tribal Center, P.O. Box 3265, Roxboro, NC 27574, to support programs that help Sappony youth learn their heritage, honor their ancestors, and carry the traditions of the tribe forward for generations to come.

Her life was a beautiful example of faith, love, and devotion, and though she will be deeply missed, her family finds comfort in knowing she is now at peace in the presence of the Lord.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23