Rebecca Whitley Shepherd, 59, passed away on Thursday, November 5, 2026. Born on September 25, 1967, in Booneville, Mississippi, Rebecca was the daughter of the late Eugene Whitley and Nola Plaxico. She was a 1985 graduate of New Site High School and continued her education at Northeast Mississippi Community College, where she earned her degree in Culinary Arts. In 1995, she married Paul Shepherd, with whom she shared 31 years of marriage. Rebecca was a member of Crestwood Baptist Church. Throughout her life, she remained connected to her family, her community, and her faith. Her memory will live on through those who knew and loved her.
She is survived by her husband, Paul Shepherd; her stepson, Josh Shepherd (Monica); her brother, James Whitley; her sisters, Jane George, Martha Mitchell, and Tanya McIntyre; and her special friend, Georgia Smallwood.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, William Whitley, and her sister, Laurie Whitley.
Visitation will be held on Sunday, November 8, 2026, from 1:00 P.M. until 3:00 P.M. at Crestwood Baptist Church. Funeral services will follow at 3:00 P.M., with Bro. Chuck Boxx officiating.
