Deacon Napoleon Sherard Jr. began his journey to the throne on July 15, 1935 when his parents Napoleon and Queen Esther Sherard welcomed him to his earthly home.  Throughout that journey, he would cross many gates until entering the final gate on September 25, 2020.

Napoleon, his parents and six other siblings lived in the Belews Street Community for many years. "June", as he was known by many, would work at his father's neighborhood business.  He would attend the local public schools and graduate from the historic Atkins High School on Cameron Avenue.  After decades of employment with R. J. Reynolds, he retired and started his landscaping and janitorial service.

Family and friends describe him as mild mannered, hardworking, paternal love for all, tough, mean, exact, precise, a hunter, a fisherman, and Bible teaching and believing.  As he entered the last gate, he would declare that he was saved and pray that others would learn "What kind of man Jesus Is."

He often said, "Somebody prayed for me" that "I would eventually learn the goodness of the Lord for myself."  It was with that realization, he joined Mars Hill Missionary Baptist Church.  After experiencing the exciting gate entrance, Napoleon would further his lifelong learning experiences in singing, teaching, helping, cooking and ministering to others. To that end, he became a deacon, Sunday School superintendent, chorister for the Vocal Choir and the regional vocal music group and youth instructor for the Rowan Baptist Association. As an original neighbor in the Castle Heights Community, neighborhood children recalled how "Mr. June" would have them assembled for weekly biblical studies.

Dear to his heart were wife of 62 years, Josephine Sallie Sherard; daughters, Cynthia Wilson (deceased) and Zena (Jason) Harris; and son, Vincent Napoleon Sherard (Johnnie).  The next generation includes Michelle Robertson, Jeanette Johnson, William Sherard, Jia Harris and Jared Harris; eight great grandchildren are additional blessings; sister, Barbara Greene of Florida; brother, Cedric Sherard of Pennsylvania; along with many extended family members and friends, survive him.

To all, Napoleon says, "Meet me at the throne. I'll be singing up there."

The public viewing will be held from 1:00pm until 5:00pm Friday, October 2, 2020 at Russell Funeral Home.

Private funeral services will be held Saturday, October 3, 2020.