Melanie Anne Shannon

Melanie Anne Shannon, age 75, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 18, 2024, surrounded by the love of her family. Born on June 12, 1949, in Chicago Heights, Illinois, she was the beloved daughter and first born of David and Elizabeth “Peddycord” Molyneaux. She is survived by her sister and best friend, Leslie Bialasik, and was preceded in death by her parents and brothers, David Molyneaux and Steven Molyneaux. 

In 1971, Melanie was united in marriage to her loving husband, Clarence “Sonny” Eugene Shannon. Together, they embarked on a journey filled with love, adventure, and shared dreams. Their bond was a testament to a partnership built on mutual respect and unwavering support.

Melanie's spirit thrived in the embrace of nature. She found joy in every outdoor experience—whether it was fishing, providing refuge for stray animals or caring for her cherished miniature Mediterranean donkeys. In 2001, she and Sonny established Fort Bison Ranch in Stone County, Missouri, which was a labor of love where they created a haven for many animals, including a herd of Bison, and welcomed friends and family to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors.

An artist at heart, Melanie expressed her creativity through various mediums, sharing her passion with those around her. Her travels took her to beautiful places, filling her heart with stories and inspiration that she carried back to her loved ones. She had an extraordinary ability to make every experience, big or small, feel special and memorable.

Family was everything to Melanie. She cherished every moment spent with her loved ones, celebrating life's milestones and creating cherished memories. Her laughter, warmth, and kindness will forever resonate in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her.

Melanie is survived by her devoted husband, Sonny; four children, son, Jason Bradford Shannon, and his wife Lauren Ashley, Cumming, Georgia, daughter, Christiana Marie Shannon, and her wife, Kristi Lee Forbes, Dawsonville, Georgia, daughter, Kelly Shannon, Evansville, Wisconsin, and daughter, Misty Soares, Gilroy, California; nine grandchildren, Kiera Ross, Kaitlyn Shannon, Dakota Shannon, Olivia Shannon, Isla Jade Shannon, Jarrett Soares, Tyler Soares, Kaitlyn Steurer, and Kyle Frey; eight great-grandchildren; and a host of family and friends who will miss her deeply. As we honor her life, we are reminded of the beauty she brought into the world, the love she shared, and the legacy of joy that will live on through her family and the countless lives she touched.

Rest in peace, dear Melanie. Your spirit will forever shine brightly in our memories.

Arrangements are under the direction of Adams Funeral Home, Ozark. Cremation rites are accorded to Adams Crematory, with burial arrangements to be determined at a later date.