Shannon L. Morris, age 77, passed away Saturday, September 14, 2024 at Brookdale Peachtree Memory Care in Statesville, following a period of declining health.
Born in Lexington, Kentucky on June 29, 1947 to Loriece and Mary Morris, Shannon attended numerous schools across the country, moving frequently due to his father’s Air Force career. Following his high school graduation in Tacoma, Washington, Shannon enlisted in the Navy, serving on a nuclear submarine for three years. He then returned to Tennessee to work on the family farm while he went back to school for his first degree in agriculture. He would go on to receive his master’s degree at the University of Tennessee and begin his notable career as an agricultural extension agent.
He met his wife, Terry, in the Land Between the Lakes in 1986. The two married on April 21, 1987, and not long after, they moved to Morganton, NC, where they spent the next 35 years together raising their family. Though he lived many places throughout his life, he always considered North Carolina to be his home.
Shannon was happiest when spending time outdoors working on his small, but impeccably maintained farm and spending time with his family. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandad, incredibly proud of all of his family and their many accomplishments. He will be best remembered as a relentless joker with an unfailing ability to make anyone laugh, and a compassionate, caring teacher and friend who always sought to help those around him.
Shannon is survived by his wife of 37 years, Terry Morris; his four children, Tiffany Rau and husband Joe, Daniel Morris and wife Krista, Lyndsey Morris, and Meagan Morris; grandchildren, Adah and Sam Morris; sister Anne Glenn Sherrill and husband Marvin; brothers Mark Morris and husband Roger, Roy Morris and wife Lisa, and Paul Morris and wife Kathy, along with numerous extended family members.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association and/or Grace Episcopal Church in Morganton.
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.
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Dear Terry, family and friends of Shannon, On behalf of the United States Submarine Veterans, we offer our sincere condolences at Shannon´s passing. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. We are always saddened whenever a fellow "Bubblehead" departs on Eternal Patrol. He served with honor in the U.S. Submarine Force. To our "Brother-of-the-Phin" we say, "Sailor, rest your oar. We have the watch. Fair Winds and Following Seas." Thank you for your service to our country. Terry and family... "may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in every way. The Lord be with you." 2 Thessalonians 3:16 (ESV). Jim Sandman, FTC(SS) Ret, National Chaplain, USSVI. www.jimsandman.com
Shannon was a wonderful and kind friend. I met him through the Kiwanis Club years ago. He and the other members lovingly helped me secure dental care for needy children. I saw him recently at Grace Ridge and he recognized me with a hug! Blessings as you move forward without him. My sympathy, Nancy Ferguson Brown, former Public Health Dental Hygienist
What a wonderful person. He did so much for the students in Burke County. I know he will be truly missed by his family and friends. Sending peace during this difficult time. They don’t make them like that anymore. Thank you for sharing him with us. Sharon C
Shannon, man you are going to missed all those Bubba jokes you had ready for use every time we saw you! We shared love if animals, gardening and most of all sharing the word of the lord. St. Marys and St. STEPHENE Is waiting till we all meet on the other side! God bless you and keep you near that we may all rejoice together in his name Glory be to GOD as it is on earth as it is in heaven, AMEN