Fran Shannon

Fran Marie Shannon (nee Fannin) passed away in Boca Raton, Fla., on Sunday, July 7, from cancer-related complications. She was surrounded by many family members and friends.

Fran was born on August 11, 1955 in Kirtland, Ohio, and is a graduate of Kirtland High School. She is survived by her loving husband, Edward Shannon; her mother, Blanche Fannin; her siblings Jo Anne Fannin, Sue Tunstall (Steve), Brian Fannin (Lori), and Shari Fannin; her nieces and nephews, great-nieces and -nephews, her loyal pup Swiffer, and an exceptionally large extended family of devoted friends. She was preceded in death by her father, Robert Fannin.

Fran is remembered as the glue that held people together — the one who planned vacations, hosted Thanksgiving, and made time to visit family and friends no matter how near or far. She was the first to help when someone needed it, offering advice, a place to stay, financial support, an ear to listen, and always, an open heart.

She was a champion of her family, sure to tell them when they made her proud. Making Fran proud was something everyone aspired to do. Fran’s sharp wit, sense of humor and intelligence left lasting impressions on those who knew her. She had a unique way of telling it like it is, but with no shortage of love.

She spoke up for what she believed in, took action, and strived to make the world a better place. She always addressed every challenge with a pragmatic fearlessness, whether it was a cross-country trek in a Volkswagen bus or taking on the role of head-of-household after her father passed.

Fran’s life was packed with adventure, traveling the world with Ed, friends and family. She was active in the lives of her loved ones, always attending special events, sending notes and gifts “just because,” and making her home a welcoming retreat for visitors. She lived in several parts of the United States, including her hometown of Kirtland, Ohio, and then later in life moving to Albuquerque, Charlotte, Philadelphia, Pinehurst, and finally, Boca Raton, nearby several life-long close friends.

She was a highly respected professional, with five years working for BP, 20 years at Hunt Manufacturing, and nearly 14 years at QAD, Inc. She attended The University of New Mexico and Drexel University’s LeBow College of Business for her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in MIS, respectively.

Fran’s memory will be held fondly and firmly by the many, many people who love her. The family is hosting private gatherings in her three home states of Florida, Pennsylvania and Ohio to celebrate Frannie’s life. For those wishing to honor her, they gratefully request donations to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Fran’s name in lieu of flowers.