David Frank Shannon, 62, of Hickory, passed away Friday, March 17, 2023 at his residence. He was born April 11, 1960 in Burlington NJ, and was the son of Frank John Jr and Shirley Ruth Bowman Shannon.
He was preceded in death by his father, Frank John Shannon Jr.
Those left to cherish his memory are his wife of 41 years, Sherry Church Shannon; mother, Shirley Ruth Bowman Shannon; son, Justin Shannon and wife Salem; grandson, Harrison Shannon; brother, Douglas Shannon; sister, Marlene Whitener and husband Bobby; nephew, Brian Whitener and wife Sarah, and Broderick Whitener; and a number of extended family and friends.
David made the most of his 62 years with us. Being born with only one arm he never let that hold him back from doing anything. He was active in sports in his hometown of Pennsauken, NJ, playing baseball for the All-Star teams. David also enjoyed playing golf with friends and family.
David moved to Hickory, NC with his family when he was 17 years old. He graduated from St. Stephens High with the Class of 1978 and on May 23rd, 1981, he married Sherry Church. Sherry met David at St. Stephens, but never dated until 1980. Sherry fell in love with David’s humor and love for life.
David pursued a career in the Automobile Industry as a salesman at Valley Chevrolet in Granite Falls, NC. David was very ambitious and successful in the automotive industry. He quickly climbed the ladder and was given the opportunity to become part owner at Scenic Chevrolet in West Jefferson, NC in 1989. David was a partner at Scenic Chevrolet until 1997, when MS made him give up his ownership. David and his family moved back to Hickory, NC to be closer to family. One of the most memorable quotes from people that worked with him was: I have never seen a one arm man smoke a cigarette, talk on the phone, drink a mountain dew, while driving a straight drive vehicle down the road.
David used to say that having one arm was nothing, but having MS was what kicked his butt. He was an inspiration to many and never let the disease get him down. He stayed positive and joked all the way to the end.
A service celebrating the life of David Shannon will be held at 2:30pm Sunday, March 26, 2023 at New Jerusalem Lutheran Church with Pastor Rob Helton officiating. The family will receive friends at 1pm prior to the service.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Carolina Caring at 3975 Robinson Rd. Newton NC 28658.
Drum Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Hickory, is serving the Shannon family and condolences may be left at www.drumfh-hickory.com.
