Mark William Shaughnessy

On March 17, 2025, the world lost a storyteller, a humorist, and a man who never met a stranger. Mark William Shaughnessy passed away peacefully at his family home in Waverly Hall, GA, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and legendary handyman projects that sometimes included just a little more lumber, stain, or varnish than necessary.
Born on January 16, 1944, in Ashtabula, Ohio, Mark was the son of the late Mark and Louise Shaughnessy. He grew up in Ashtabula, graduating from Harbor High School before earning a bachelor's degree in business from Kent State University. His love for golf started early, first as a caddy, then as a Golf Pro at the Ashtabula Country Club. While his swing never earned him PGA fame, it was well-known among friends and colleagues-and Mark was always eager to offer tips to help others improve their game.
A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Mark had a heart of gold. He always found time to help others, whether that meant painting a neighbor's shutters, building a ramp for a family member, or lending an ear over a coke. He was a proud Vietnam veteran and shared his experiences through his heartfelt book, Vietnam Remembered - A Tale of Two Brothers. Mark never encountered a story he couldn't improve with a little flair-somewhere between a true tale and an epic adventure.
After a 30-year career in the insurance industry, Mark enjoyed retirement by attempting to master woodworking, playing plenty of golf, and perfecting the fine art of dad jokes. A lifelong Bob Dylan fan, Mark believed no road trip was complete without some Dylan tunes and plenty of "Are we there yet?" quips. In fact, there probably wasn't a single day-or even an hour-without Dylan's music playing or Mark "singing" along as he went about his activities.
Mark is now reunited with his brothers, Jim and Patrick Shaughnessy, his sister Marge Branscome, and his dear friend David Floor. He leaves behind his beloved wife of 40 years, Lisa Whisnant Shaughnessy; his daughters, Eleanor Shaughnessy Cardenas of Marietta, GA and Lindsay Shaughnessy of Waverly Hall, GA; his cherished grandchildren, Elizabeth and Lucas Cardenas; his brother, Donald Shaughnessy of Ashtabula, Ohio; his sister-in-law, Amberly Benefield of Hampton, GA; his brothers-in-law, Billy Whisnant (Danna) of Manchester, GA, and Thomas Whisnant of Geneva, GA; and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends who adored him. Among his many cherished friends were Jim Nyland, Richard Morrison, Dave Williams, and Bill Crowell-bonds that stood the test of time and countless rounds of golf.
A Graveside Memorial Service will be held 3:00 PM Friday, April 18, 2025 at the Waverly Hall Cemetery, located directly across the highway from 9040 GA Hwy. 208, Waverly Hall, GA 31831.
In honor of Mark's life, the family requests donations be made to Disabled American Veterans or Feeding The Valley Food Bank.
Mark believed in Einstein's words: "Try not to become a man of success, but rather a man of value." And oh, what value he brought to all who knew him.
Cox Funeral Home, Manchester, GA, is assisting the Shaughnessy family with arrangements.