

Shannon Renee Downs, age 49, of Somerville, Ohio, passed away suddenly on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at Kettering Health Hamilton in Hamilton, Ohio. Though her time here was far too short, Shannon filled every moment with love, adventure, and a warmth that made people feel instantly at home.
Born on December 14, 1976, in Oxford, Ohio, to the late Raymond Kidd and Janette Walters, Shannon grew up with a strong work ethic and a big heart—traits she carried proudly throughout her life. She was a graduate of Preble Shawnee High School and DeVry University and worked as a paraprofessional at Edgewood Intermediate, where she was deeply loved by students and coworkers alike.
Shannon was a woman who truly did it all. She worked hard, loved fiercely, and never turned down an adventure. She had a special love for traveling and amusement parks—especially Kings Island and Disney World—where her joy was as big as the rides themselves. At home, she found happiness in the simple pleasures, particularly tending to her beloved chickens and generously sharing fresh eggs with anyone lucky enough to be nearby. If you left Shannon’s house without eggs, she probably just hadn’t seen you yet.
Above all else, Shannon’s greatest joy was her family. She loved her children deeply and absolutely adored her grandchildren, who knew her best as “Grams”—a title she wore with pride and delight. Her laughter, hugs, and unconditional love will forever echo in their lives.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Raymond Kidd and Janette Walters.
Shannon is survived by the love of her life and best friend, Steve Downs, with whom she shared more than 26 years of love and memories, and whom she joyfully married on December 26, 2025. She is also survived by her sons, Trey (Amanda) Wise, Nathaniel (Megan) Wise, Dakota (Katelyn Shannon) Wise, and Zachary Wise; her cherished grandchildren, Lilly, Paisley, Bentley, Arabella, August, Astrid, and one precious grandbaby expected in March 2026; her sister, Shiloh (Bobby) Hunt; her brother, Raymond Kidd; her Edgewood Intermediate family; and many extended family members and friends who were blessed to know her.
Though our hearts are heavy, we take comfort in knowing that Shannon’s love, laughter, and adventurous spirit will live on in every shared story, every ride at the amusement park, every carton of fresh eggs, and every time someone proudly says, “That’s how Grams would’ve done it.”
A celebration of Shannon’s life will be held at a later date.
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