Shawna Kay Whitaker

Shawna Kay (Franklin) Whitaker passed away January 21, 2026 at OHSU after a long illness. She was born in Salem, Oregon on September 10, 1966 to Charles and Georgialee Franklin, both deceased. She is survived by her son Tanner (Alysha) Whitaker and grandson Benjamin. She was the youngest of six kids-21 years apart. She is survived by Cheryl (Dave) Peck of North Carolina, Novelyn (Dave) Voll of Salem, Melodie (Brian) Tooley of Salem, Lonnie (Charlotte) Franklin of Grants Pass, and Cara (Tom) Engstrom of Washington.

She worked at the Oregon Justice Department early in her career before joining a bookkeeping/tax office as a bookkeeper eventually finding her way to The Pentacle Theater as an administrative assistant. She also participated in her first theater production, Hot Flashes, which gave her great memories.

During her illness, she resided at Sapphire of Tigard, where she enjoyed her roommate Melissa who said "Shawna liked to say they were 'sisters from another mister'." Melissa said she really enjoyed Shawna's sarcastic self-deprecating sense of humor.

Her family will really miss her sense of humor and her love for life. She was always so proud of Tanner and Benjamin, and appreciated Tanner and Alysha's hospitality while she lived with them. She was thankful for Tanner's many visits.

No public services will be held per her request.