Virginia S. "Ginny" Shepherd, 78, formerly of Dunbar, WV, passed away at home in Murrells Inlet, SC, on January 28, 2009, after a short illness.

Former organist and choir director of local churches including: McKinnon Presbyterian Church in Tyler Mountain, Dunbar First Presbyterian, and Humphreys Memorial United Methodist Church in Dunbar. She retired from Columbia Gas Transmission in 1986, and devoted much of her time to volunteer work with churches, music, veterans, and nursing home patients.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Rev. Oliver and Mrs. Flossie Simmons.

She leaves behind her husband, best friend, and companion of 54 years, Howard L. Shepherd; son, Ron Shepherd and wife, Martha of Taylors, SC; Daughter, Kathy Sue Harper and husband, Ronny of Dunbar; brother, Leslie "Doc" Simmons, and wife Shirley of York, SC; in-laws: Earl and Francis Shepherd of Chester, WV, Johnny and Imogene Pearman of Greensboro, NC, Tom and Margaret Neese of Morgantown, WV, and many, many, nieces, nephews, special friends, and acquaintances.

Grandchildren, Tech Sgt Jason Harper of Hampton, VA, stationed in Iraq, Staff Sgt Shane Harper and wife, Staff Sgt Tamara of Arlington, VA; Graham, Rachel, and Hannah Shepherd of Taylors, SC; and, great-grandchild, Benjamin Harper of Arlington, VA.

A memorial service will be held at 1:30 p.m., Sunday, February 15, 2009, at the Dunbar United Methodist Church in Dunbar, with the Rev. Dr. Okey Harless officiating. At the deceased request, her body was cremated.

Arrangements are in the care of Keller Funeral Home, Dunbar.