Verna Florence Isobel Shannon

October 3, 1930 – February 15, 2024

It is with saddened hearts that the family of Verna Shannon announces her passing on February 15, 2024 at the Magnolia Gardens Care Centre in Langley.

Born Oct 3, 1930 in Burnaby, she was the oldest of 5 children. Verna had many fond memories of her years in Kerrisdale and Ocean Park with extended family close by. After graduating high school, Verna went on to further her education to become a school teacher. After accepting a teaching position, her life shifted. She was married and became a mother to 7 beautiful children. When her children were grown, Verna began working at Green Timbers Nursery and continued there until her retirement in 1995. Verna planned her dream retirement very carefully and purchased a lot in Osoyoos where she said the sun always shone and the clear blue sky made her smile. She couldn’t wait to load up her Firebird and hit the road to begin her easier years. Her favourite place in Osoyoos was sitting on the back deck looking at the boats on the lake, the sky and the mountains ridges. She would often reflect at how happy she was to live in a home that her sons built for her. She spoke with great pride of their attention to every last detail in making her home perfect.

Verna loved welcoming her big family into her summer paradise each year. She looked forward every year to the Shannon family picnic with excitement to reconnect with immediate and extended family. She loved Christmas and the twinkling multi coloured lights. Tending meticulously to her garden beds, rose bushes and her home were all favourite pastimes. Talking with family and hearing about their accomplishments warmed her heart. She had a knack for remembering where everyone was at in their life and took a keen, genuine interest. She enjoyed square dancing and visiting at the community centre. Becoming the president of Meals on Wheels and riding in the Osoyoos parade was a highlight. Verna was an amazing knitter and she gladly shared her talent with others that wanted to learn. Verna’s sister Gretta was an integral part of her life. She was grateful to have Gretta live with her and deepen their sister bond. She loved telling stories of her life. Whether she was sharing about her days at the Shannon greenhouses or speaking fondly of her Irish roots, she loved sharing her story. If you had the chance to be a part of Verna’s life, you knew you were lucky. She was a woman of grace, independence, charm and kindness. Her smile was ever ready to greet you no matter what was happening in her day.

We will not say goodbye to Verna. We will say thank you and we love you forever.

Verna is survived by her children Robert, Leonard, Kerry and Kenneth; her siblings Norman and Lyle; 12 grandchildren,18 great-grandchildren and 6 great-great grandchildren. She was predeceased by her children Ian, Valerie and Vicki; her sisters Maureen and Gretta.