News Summary
The sports world mourns the loss of Randy Shepherd, a former standout basketball player at UNC Asheville and faith leader, who passed away at age 60 after battling liver cancer. Shepherd was known for his contributions on the court and his impactful ministry through Crossfire Ministries. His legacy lives on as a beacon of hope and inspiration, reaching thousands around the globe.
Randy Shepherd, Beloved Basketball Player and Faith Leader, Passes Away at 60
Asheville, NC – In a heart-wrenching turn of events, the sports world mourns the loss of Randy Shepherd, a former standout basketball player at the University of North Carolina Asheville, who passed away on September 19, 2024, at the age of 60. Shepherd’s journey in life was far more than just about basketball. He is remembered not only for his impressive skills on the court but also for the profound impact he made through his faith-based ministry.
A Star Player’s Legacy
Shepherd was a key player for the UNC Asheville Bulldogs from 1982 to 1987, a time when the team transitioned into Division I. As the starting point guard, he played an instrumental role, helping his team achieve a remarkable record of 93 wins and 52 losses over five seasons. His on-court dedication and leadership were crucial during this pivotal period for the program, earning him recognition and admiration from coaches, teammates, and fans alike.
Paving the Way for Others
After wrapping up his basketball career, Shepherd’s passion for sports did not fade. In 1993, he co-founded Crossfire Ministries, a unique sports evangelistic organization aimed at sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ through basketball. With his longtime friend Jamie Johnson by his side, Crossfire became a beacon of hope and inspiration, reaching out to individuals across the globe.
Over the years, Shepherd’s ministry has traveled to an incredible 68 countries and 47 states, impacting the lives of thousands. It has hosted heartbreaking basketball camps that have seen participants grow from childhood to parenthood, as many alumni return with their own children to experience the joy and enthusiasm that Crossfire fosters.
A Life Cut Short
Tragically, Shepherd had been battling liver cancer prior to his passing. Despite his illness, he remained committed to his ministry, leading basketball camps even as his health declined. His spirit and warmth touched everyone around him, and he was known for his ability to uplift others even in the face of adversity.
A Community in Mourning
On hearing the news of his passing, the UNC Asheville Athletics community expressed their condolences and recognized Shepherd’s unwavering commitment to the Bulldogs. The former Sports Information Director went on to praise his pivotal role in facilitating the program’s successful transition to Division I.
Moreover, the former men’s basketball coach reflected on Shepherd’s intelligence and competitive nature, acknowledging how those traits contributed both on and off the court. A tribute to his dedication, Shepherd’s influence is expected to endure through Crossfire Ministries and the countless lives he impacted.
Celebrating His Life
Funeral services for Randy Shepherd will be conducted on September 29, with visitation starting at 1:30 p.m. and the funeral at 3:00 p.m. at Trinity Baptist Church in West Asheville. It is an opportunity for family, friends, and the wider community to come together and celebrate the incredible life of a man who made such a lasting impression.
A Legacy That Will Live On
Though Shepherd may no longer be physically present, his legacy will continue to thrive through Crossfire Ministries. The organization has completed over 300 international trips, establishing valuable connections that have even involved NBA talents. The mission he helped establish will carry on, inspiring future generations and fostering love and sportsmanship among communities worldwide.
Randy Shepherd leaves behind a legacy that beautifully intertwines athletic achievement and devotion to service. He will always be remembered not just as a basketball player, but as a remarkable person who dedicated his life to uplifting others.
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Additional Resources
- UNC Asheville Athletics
- WLOS News
- Legacy.com
- Blue Ridge Now
- Blue Ridge Now – Crossfire Ministries
- Wikipedia: Randy Shepherd
- Google Search: Randy Shepherd basketball
- Google Scholar: Randy Shepherd
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Randy Shepherd
- Google News: Randy Shepherd
Author: STAFF HERE ASHEVILLE WRITER
The ASHEVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAsheville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Asheville, Buncombe County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Asheville Bread Festival, LEAF Festival, and mountain sports tournaments at Biltmore Estate. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce and Explore Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in hospitality and brewing that power the local economy such as the Biltmore Estate and Sierra Nevada Brewing Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
