In Loving Memory of Billy Joe Shannon
May 31, 1951 - July 28, 2025

Billy Joe Shannon, beloved husband, grandfather, and friend to all, passed away peacefully on July 28, 2025, in Oklahoma City at the age of 74. Born on May 31, 1951, in Marlow, Oklahoma, to Robert and Viva Mae Shannon, Bill was a true Oklahoma original-known for his warm heart, unforgettable smile, and the remarkable ability to brighten any room he entered.

Bill never met a stranger. Whether it was a trip to the grocery store, a Friday night dinner, or a game of pool; there wasn't a person in Duncan who didn't know and love him. He had a rare gift for making people feel better than they were before he came along.

Billy married the love of his life, Sherrie Shannon, on December 6, 1991 after a 7-year engagement. Together they built a life full of God, laughter, love, family, travel, and pets. Of all the roles Bill cherished, none brought him more joy than being a grandfather to his "sweetheart" Cara. Cara and her husband, Trent, were the lights of his world, and his pride in them knew no bounds.

Bill is preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, and his beloved son, Jeff Sides.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Sherrie Shannon; granddaughter Cara Robertson and her husband Trent; daughter-in-law Carrie Sides; cousins in California and Oklahoma, MANY cherished friends, and countless members of the Duncan community who were lucky enough to call him a friend.

To know Billy was to love him. He was a storyteller, a jokester, a listener, and a helper. He lived big, laughed often, and loved without hesitation. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, humor, and humanity that will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

A celebration of Billy's life will be held on Thursday, July 31st, at 2:00 PM at New Hope Baptist Church, where friends and family will gather to share stories, shed tears, and most of all-laugh, just like Billy would've wanted. Please feel free to wear bright colors as he loved to do. Serving as pallbearers are Steve Earnhart, Edwin Laminack, Mike Wilson, Alan Jech, Ronnie Ferrall, and Keith Woods; honorary pallbearers are Quinton Fixico, Randall Scott, Zac Wilson, Craig Jackson, and Trent Robertson.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you do something Bill would do: smile at a stranger, lend a hand, or make someone's day just a little bit better.

Rest easy, Bill. You were one of a kind, and you will be missed beyond measure.

Viewing at Whitt Funeral Home on Wednesday.

Online condolences can be made at www.whittfh.com.