Shannon Thomas Swanson

Shannon Thomas Swanson, age 43, of Alexandria, Virginia passed away peacefully with her family by her side on Saturday May 12, 2018. Shannon was born August 24, 1974 in Massachusetts. She is survived by Jeffrey Swanson, her husband of 18 years, her children Ethan, Audrey and Eli, her parents Joanne and Jerome Thomas, and her sister Sarah Thomas. Shannon's love and care for others was only matched by her creative spirit. The daughter of a Navy and Coast Guard veteran, Shannon grew up all around the world, spending time in Massachusetts, Washington State, Michigan, Maryland, Sardinia Italy, Yakuska Japan, and Portsmouth Rhode Island. Graduating as Salutatorian from Portsmouth High school, she attended Keene State College in New Hampshire, graduating with a BS in Graphic Design. In her professional life, she worked as a graphic designer for Burson Marsteller, most recently as the Communications Director for the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria, and for many years as a freelance graphic designer for International Marine Publishing, a division of McGraw Hill. In addition, she devoted countless hours to helping friends, family, schools and church with various design needs. At home Shannon was a loving mother and wife. She loved the Coast Guard and sacrificed numerous times as the family was stationed in Michigan, Rhode Island and in Virginia for multiple assignments. She endured many ship deployments, keeping life at home consistent and supportive. She brought her creative forces to bear in all of her children's endeavors, resulting in many unforgettable birthdays, holidays, and school projects and events. A multifaceted artist, she produced spectacular knit, needlework and jewelry pieces, and took the greatest joy in being able to share her talents with others. Shannon left an indelible mark on everyone she met and her absence will be sorely felt until we can meet again. A visitation for Shannon will be held Thursday, May 17, 2018 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Demaine Funeral Home, 520 South Washington Street, Alexandria, VA 22314. A funeral service will occur Friday, May 18, 2018 from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM at St. Louis Catholic Church, 2907 Popkins Lane, Alexandria, VA 22306. An interment ceremony is scheduled on Coast Guard Hill at Arlington National Cemetery on July 26, 2018 at 9:00 AM. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.DemaineFuneralHomes.com for the Swanson family. Donations in lieu of flowers can be made to the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria https://alexandriaanimals.org/support-us/ or the Mount Vernon Community Children's Theater https://www.mvcct.org/support-us.