Miss. Katherine Marie Shannon

Katherine M. Shannon, "Kay," 99, long-time resident of Jackson Heights, New York, entered into eternal rest on July 12, 2014. Kay was born to James and Margaret Shannon on March 27, 1915 in New York City. Kay lived the last many years of her life in Jackson Heights, but before her family moved there, she had been a resident of every other borough of the City except Staten Island. Ahead of her time, Kay had a long and productive career at Met Life; her last and longest position there was Secretary to the Chairman of the Board. Kay was devoted to family, and cared for her parents and her Aunt Nell until the end of their lives. She was loving and generous to her whole extended family as well, embracing them with a quiet grace. Kay was proud of her Irish heritage and constant in her Catholic faith.

Kay's home was the place for parties and family gatherings. Until she reached her mid-90's, Christmas meant Aunt Kay's house. She was devoted to her two younger sisters Jeanne and Peggy, and to her brother Bill, and their children. Kay was a beloved figure to them all. Kay also travelled the world with her friends, making trips to Ireland, to many spots in Western Europe, and to Scandinavia and the Far East. She enjoyed summer vacations with her parents and Aunt Nell in Far Rockaway, Staten Island, Bayville, Long Island and Denville, New Jersey. She took wonderful photographs and shared tales of these many adventures with all of us.

Kay set high standards worthy of emulation. She always dressed impeccably, and always kept a beautiful home, with the paintings of her father, James Shannon, prominently displayed throughout. Kay demonstrated the art of living well and the art of living with kindness and grace. She is survived by fifteen nieces and nephews and their spouses, many great-nieces and nephews, and even great-grand nieces and nephews, as well as many wonderful friends and caregivers.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Katherine M. Shannon can be made to

International Lighthouse

111 East 59th Street

New York, New York 10022-1202

111 E 59th St, New York NY 10022-1202

OR

St. Anthony's Guild

144 West 32nd Street

New York, New York 10001-3202