David Lavon “Red” Shannon, age 61, of Brookport, Illinois, peacefully transitioned from this life on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at Mercy Health Hospital in Paducah, Kentucky.

Born on July 7, 1964, to David L. and Martha B. Shannon, Red grew up in Brookport, where his bright spirit and natural gifts quickly became known to all who met him. He attended Brookport Elementary and Brookport High School, earning recognition for his exceptional basketball skills and his easygoing, friendly nature.

At an early age, Red became a member of the Brookport Church of Christ under the pastoral leadership of the late Brother William (Bill) Hensley. His faith shaped his character, grounding him in kindness, humility, and a gentle strength that stayed with him throughout his life.

Red had a special gift with children. They adored him, and he adored them right back. To them, he was Mr. Red — the one who listened, laughed, encouraged, and made every child feel seen and valued.

He is preceded in death by his father, David L. Shannon, his wife, Kim Keeling-Shannon and other relatives.

Red leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish his memory: His devoted mother, Martha Shannon of Brookport, IL; His daughters, Whitney Sherrill Shannon of Miami, FL, and Tahlia Jones of Milwaukee, WI; His sons, David Shannon of Pensacola, FL and Andrew Shannon of St. Petersburg, FL; His Step-Daughter, Maegan Keeling Rhodes; His brothers, Davarr Shannon of Brookport, IL and David Gardner of Cincinnati, OH; His sisters, Paula (Christian) Hutchings of Vallejo, CA, Shawnda Brown and Shanice Holland, both of Memphis, TN; Lucretia Shannon of Reidland, KY and Deja Shannon of Atlanta, GA;

Thirteen grandchildren, one great‑granddaughter, five aunts, six uncles, and a host of relatives and friends.

Red’s presence brought joy, comfort, and warmth to everyone who knew him. His gentle spirit, his laughter, and his love for people — especially children — will remain in the hearts of all who were blessed to share life with him.

He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Funeral services have been scheduled for Saturday, July 11, 2026, 12 noon at Greater Lincoln Heights Missionary Baptist Church with Pastor Milo Patterson and Minister Ayrie Crump officiating.

Family will receive friends at the church on Saturday from 11:00 a.m. until the funeral hour.

The service will be livestreamed on the Pettus-Rowland Funeral Home, LLC Facebook page beginning at 11:45 a.m. (CST).

Burial will take place on Monday, July 13, 2026, 12 Noon at Maplelawn Park Cemetery.