Edythe Elizabeth Shannon

Born during the third decade of the twentieth century, in Tampa, Florida. Moved to DeLand, Florida at a young age and was educated at Bronson High School. The eldest daughter of Thomas and Juanita Shannon. Preceded in death by her parents and sister, Roslynde. She was among the very first African-Americans to manager an office in downtown DeLand. As the program worker for the Tuberculosis and Health Association of West Volusia County, she was responsible for distributing and collecting funds for the annual Christmas Seals campaign. She would collect between $2000.00 to $4000.00 per day and deposit between $35,000.00 to $45,000.00 per week. As a member of the Greater Union First Baptist Church, she served in a number of capacities: Sunday School teacher, Sunday School Superintendent, Trustee Board, Choir No. 2 and Usher Board No. 2. She also held the position of president of the BYPU (Baptist Young People's Union.) Miss Shannon was employed by the School District of Volusia County where she worked as the office manager of Southwestern Middle School for over thirty years. Her influence upon the people around her, from students to staff to parents was boundless. The sweetness of her memories will be cherished by: Nephews, R. Bruce Brown, Willie J. Brown, Jr., and Machi T. Smokes; Nieces, Michele D. Brown, Maya Elizabeth Brown and Carolyn B. Stevens (Joseph), Special Cousins: Klara S. Hadley (Fred), Fredara Mareva Hadley, and Fannie Rodgers. The Lawson/Taylor family of DeLand, a host of cousins from Tampa, as well as many dear friends. Her life will be celebrated 3:00 p. m. Saturday, January 9, 2016 at the Greater Union First Baptist Church, 240 South Clara Avenue, DeLand, Pastor Troy A. Bradley Sr., officiating. A wake will be held Friday, January 8, 2016 from 5:00 p. m. to 7:00 p. m., also to be held at Greater Union. Burial will follow the funeral services in the family plot of Union Cemetery, 1600 West Euclid Avenue, DeLand. Services entrusted to the care of J. E. Cusack Mortuary.