Beloved Veteran Jim Shannon Jr. Remembered in Heartfelt Tribute

Weeki Wachee, Florida, USA - James C. “Jim” Shannon Jr. will be remembered as a loving husband, dedicated father, and a true friend to many. He passed away on October 27, 2024, at the age of 76. Jim, who was married to Edie for 32 years, leaves behind a strong family legacy. His daughter Michelle (Ben) Detavernier, his brother Brenda Bradshaw, stepdaughters Jennifer (Dan) Besson and Tera (Jason) Jowske, and grandchildren Madison, Zachary, Abigail, Emma, Nathan, Isaac, Bella, and Julia mourn his passing. He was preceded in death by his sister Patricia Walker and his parents James Shannon Sr. and Edith Shannon.

Born on December 2, 1947, in Virginia, Jim’s family relocated to Clarkston when he was just five years old. He lived out his formative years there, graduating from Clarkston High School in 1966. Soon after, his commitment to service led him to enlist in the U.S. Air Force, where he would spend four years fulfilling the role of Telecommunications Systems Control Specialist in the 1923 Communications Squadron at Kelly Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas. He returned to civilian life with honors, having received the National Defense Service Medal and the Air Force Good Conduct Medal.Clarkston News reports that upon his return, Jim found his calling at Michigan Bell Telephone Company as an instructor.

A Life of Passion and Commitment

After his time with the Air Force, Jim would take on an entirely new challenge. He attended The GolfWorks Clubmaking Academy, becoming certified in golf equipment assembly, fitting, and repair. Golf was more than just a pastime for Jim; it was a passion. His skill was remarkable, achieving „hole in one“ status four times and relishing the opportunity to organize golf outings for friends and family. His connection to the local community was deep, highlighted by many years as a member of the Elks Lodge in Waterford.

Jim and Edie’s later years took them to Weeki Wachee, Florida, where they enjoyed a more tranquil lifestyle. Even as he moved away from his longtime home, Jim remembered his roots and cherished the memories made in the Clarkston area.

A Veteran’s Legacy and Records

The journey of discovering more about veterans like Jim can lead many families to a trove of valuable records. For those interested in finding information related to World War II veterans, the National Archives provides helpful resources. By searching the National Archives Catalog, users can delve into various electronic records related to World War II—a task made easier thanks to their comprehensive guide on accessing military records online.National Archives expands on how to navigate through these records, which include details about enlistment and service.

For instance, Record Group 64 offers a trove of data on nearly 9 million enlisted Army personnel from 1938 to 1946, while Record Group 330 contains surveys reflecting soldiers‘ perspectives during the wartime period. Researching these records can provide families an insightful glimpse into the valor and experiences of those who served, much like Jim did during his service in the Air Force.

Preserving Memories

For families mourning the loss of a veteran like Jim, tracking down memorabilia can be incredibly meaningful. Items like discharge papers, photographs, and medals often tell a rich story of courage and commitment. Resources provided by organizations like FamilySearch offer guidance on gathering essential military details, ensuring that the memory of their loved ones can be honored and remembered. Their well-composed guides assist families in locating critical military records, including unit histories and service details, which can be invaluable for those looking to celebrate a veteran’s life. FamilySearch emphasizes the importance of community and connections, encouraging families to reach out to local veterans associations for assistance.

In closing, as Jim Shannon’s friends and family pay tribute to his life and accomplishments, they not only celebrate a cherished individual but also remind us all of the importance of remembering those who have served. As a private service with military honors will be held at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, we are inevitably reminded of Jim’s commitment—both to his family and his country. Memorial donations can be made to either United Veterans of Michigan or Great Lakes National Cemetery to further honor his legacy.