Bonnye Brooks Shepherd

June 13, 1943 - March 10, 2010
Bonnye Brooks Shepherd

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Bonnye Brooks Shepherd, 66, of Hendersonville, NC, died Wednesday, March 10, 2010 at Universal Health Care of Fletcher after an extended illness.

Born in Hendersonville, Bonnye was the daughter of the late Brooks E. SHpeherd and Jane E. Roper. She was also preceded in death by her son, Karl Rowell.

She graduated with the first graduating class of East Henderson High School in 1961 and from nursing school at Mission Memorial Hospital.

Her nursing career extended over thirty years (more than half in critical care) with Memorial Mission Hospital, Dorothea Dix Hospital in Wake County, Wake County Medical Center, St. Joseph’s Hospital in Asheville, and Thoms Rehab and VA Hospitals, both in Asheville.

She was affiliated with the Episcopal Church. Bonnye enjoyed crafts as a hobby and as an amateur professional, including making silver jewelry, weaving and painting.

Bonnye is survived by her brothers, Brooks E. Shepherd of Charlotte and Jess B. Shepherd of Hendersonville; her chldren, Rayna Rowell of Cary; Tanya Rowell of Asheville; and Joseph Rowell of Arlington, TX; and five grandchildren.

The graveside service will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the WNC Chapter of Alzheimer’s Association, 31 College Place Ste D320, Asheville, NC 28801, or to the American Cancer Society, 120 Executive Park Bldg. 1, Asheville, NC 28801.


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  • March 13, 2010
    Cheryl Eye Pruitt says:
    Brooks, My deepest sympathy to you and your family in the loss of your sister. May the many sweet memories you share bring comfort in the days ahead. God Bless you and give you His Peace.

  • March 16, 2010
    Jeannie Taylor LIndsey says:
    May God be with each of you. Bonnye was a beautiful, sweet and caring person. I graduated with her in the class of '61. Your family will be in my thoughts and prayers.