Shannon Dean Larson
It is with profound sadness and a devastating sense of loss that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, son and brother, Shannon Dean Larson. He was our family’s rock and cornerstone. A proud Texan, Shannon was an enthusiastic Longhorn cattle rancher, educator, culture geek, cook, avid guitar collector, and musician/songwriter/lyricist/poet who loved all genres of music. With a witty sense of humor, Shannon captured the attention of all through his outgoing spontaneity and impulsivity, as he never met a stranger, and considered himself such a people person, as his approachable personality and extroverted ways invited any and all into his circle. Shannon’s abundance mindset was that there was always more room and more time for anyone and everyone. As a brain cancer warrior for over 21 years, he approached life with his Lord pretty much the same way he approached people: he worshipped, loved and was faithful to his Rock and Redeemer through it all, even when the battles were so very tough.
A specific reflection by Shannon from 2008 portrays his grit and outlook that carried him through: “…I am marking time by Christmases and birthdays. I am learning that I must never stop learning, I realize that people from my past mean more to me than sometimes I feel I mean to them, but it’s ok…it’s alright…we must live our lives for those that will look back on us and find meaning in the words we said, the things we have done, and with whom we have earned memories….to the next…years…I look forward to you.” Shannon indeed earned so many memories from so many people in different walks of life. His own words are so very powerful today, and his voice still speaks. He pressed on and moved forward through each step, Paso a Paso, and hard time that came his way, especially in the last 5 years of difficult surgeries and countless cancer treatments and therapies. For that, we are exceedingly grateful.
Shannon gained his eternal reward on Sunday, October 2, 2022. He was born on March 29, 1972, in Port Arthur, Texas, to Brenda Castille Larson and Vestal Larson, Jr. He was a Class of ’90 graduate from Nederland High School, Class of ’94 graduate from Lamar University with his Bachelors in Spanish, Class of ’01 Graduate from Lamar University with his Masters in Counseling and Development, and obtained in 2005 from Stephen F. Austin University his principal certificate.
Shannon’s love for education and helping children succeed is shown through his dedication to his profession in service to five school districts spanning a 25-year career, including being a Spanish teacher, school counselor, assistant principal, and principal. Not many people attempt to work while undergoing major brain surgeries and cancer treatments. However, Shannon, indefatigable as always, remained a loyal and passionate administrator until his medical retirement. He made an impact in both helping students as well as leading the staff. Former students remember him fondly and would always make an effort to give him a big hug, say hello and express how much they appreciated his care for them. Those comments always brought him joy that he was able to help make a difference in their lives.
And even though he was so proud of his professional accomplishments, Shannon was even more proud of his family. Shannon and Jamie’s love story of over 25 years of marriage, was one that withstood all the highs and lows that life could possibly offer, and they remained steadfast, inseparable and deeply devoted to one another. His family gave him the HOPE to keep going, and hope does not disappoint.
An avid amateur videographer, Shannon was enthusiastic about documenting his children’s lives (and those of his longhorns) through film. It might take several years to comb through the large container of discs and flash drives he left us, but Jamie is determined to gather them into treasured compilations for their children to enjoy. What precious memories these discs hold with Shannon’s voice doing much of the narration!
Whenever Shannon wasn’t attending one of his children’s sports games, band concerts, school plays, awards ceremonies, or any other important milestone event, he could be found overseeing and caring for his longhorn cattle herd.
Shannon was a man of great passion, a man of great wisdom, a man of great love and a gift to all those who were blessed to know him.
Shannon’s legacy of love, zeal for life, and longsuffering will be lovingly remembered by his devoted wife Jamie; daughter Maggie; sons Julian, James, and Simon; parents Brenda & Gene Larson; sister Valerie Carter; brother Jason Larson; loving nieces and nephews; aunts; uncles; cousins and friends.
He is preceded in death by his grandparents, Johnnie and Harry Castille and Estella and Vestal Larson, Sr.
Like everything else in his life, Shannon faced his diagnosis bravely, squarely and gracefully. Shannon’s medical team of neuro-oncologists from Texas (Dr. O’Brien) to Maryland (Dr. Gilbert) were unparalleled in their expert care, and our family would like to extend our deepest gratitude and appreciation.
For anyone willing to share a special memory about Shannon, we would love it if you can write an email and share your stories with us. We want to create a book for his children and future grandchildren so they can always remember how he touched and impacted other people’s lives.
A gathering of Mr. Larson’s family and friends will be from 5:00 p.m. until 7:30 p.m., Thursday, October 6, 2022, at Parkway Life Church, 1865 Farm to Market Rd 3513, Lumberton, under the direction of Broussard’s, 1605 North Major Drive, Beaumont. A funeral service will be at 11:00 a.m., Friday, October 7, 2022, at Parkway Life Church, with his interment to follow at Haven of Rest, Beaumont.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested for contributions to be made in order to fund brain cancer research, treatments, and support brain cancer families at one of the following organizations:
Neuro-Oncology Branch (NOB) / National Cancer Institute (NCI), 9030 Old Georgetown Road, Room 225, Bethesda, Maryland 20892. Please include in your donation letter all pertinent donor details (name, address, etc) as well as Shannon Larson as the name of person being remembered, plus the name and address of the individual to be notified of the donation.
The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, P.O. Box 4486, Houston, Texas 77210-4486, or at mdanderson.org/gifts. Please include that gifts should be designated to brain cancer research – Dr. Barbara O’Brien in the memo to ensure donations are directed to her research specifically.
Friends of Patients at the NIH, P.O. Box 34139, Bethesda, Maryland 20827, or Donate Here.
Dr. Marnie Rose Foundation, 4545 Bissonnet Street, Suite 112, Bellaire, Texas 77401, or Donate Here.
National Brain Tumor Society, 55 Chapel Street, Suite 006, Newton, Massachusetts 02458, or Donate Here.
Video
Gathering of Family and Friends
Parkway Life Church
- 1865, Farm To Market Rd 3513, Lumberton, TX, 77657,
- October 6, 2022
- 5:00 pm - 7:30 pm
Funeral Service
Parkway Life Church
- 1865, Farm To Market Rd 3513, Lumberton, TX, 77657,
- October 7, 2022
- 11:00 am
Interment
Haven of Rest Cemetery
- 13851, U.S. 90, Beaumont, Texas, 77713,
I was blessed to know Mr. Larson, he was my Assistant Principal at Marshall Middle School. He was a ray of sunshine that helped me through those challenging and rewarding times. He will be missed and I am sending prayers for his family that he lovingly spoke of often. May he rest in peace, he was a brave and kind man. 🙏
Shannon Dean Larson
Where do I begin, he was such a larger-than-life person. He was my person, my 22-month-old deferred twin. We were inseparable growing up. We spent countless hours full of exploring, adventures and committing shenanigan after shenanigan. Sometimes our parents knew, sometimes they didn’t, (like listening to rock n-roll), LOL!
We had an EPIC childhood, we were known for staying up half the night talking, sharing cookies & milk and stories that made us laugh until our sides hurt, far into the wee hours of the morning. Our constant banter between us of “Don’t drink it all” was our battle cry. We were best buds, my first best friend. As we grew up, the roles reversed, and he quickly became the older deferred twin. The one I always looked up to, always called on for advice, and he always gave it, unsolicited at times, but always in love. LOL! He always cheered me on, challenged me to grow, and always encouraged me to learn and fly high. Life has many curve balls, and when my most challenging one was hurled my way, it changed our lives instantly, and brought us even closer. This defining moment in my life was the burying of my first daughter, Madison, and it was his voice that stayed with me and gave me the strength to move forward. This, along with many other unlisted traumas seemed never ending, but there was no trauma big enough for him to let me fail, he was, simply my rock.
We were taught from an early age to always love people. I cannot tell you how many friends were brought home, how many bible studies were given, how many friends we brought to church, everyone was welcomed. Our Mom taught us to live your life, being Christ like and showing love and kindness in a dark world. It was living for Jesus, and he carried that every day, never meeting a stranger. His love for others shown through his actions, his smile, his encouragement and it only took one minute with him to know he lived for Lord.
This world lost a hero, a warrior, a beacon of light with an infectious laugh, which made you laugh even harder. I do not know what we will do now, because there is only one Shannon Dean Larson. In the face of adversity, he chose to always see the positive. In the 21 years he had cancer he did not complain. I would always tell him “You are my hero. If I could take it from you, I would.” Cancer took many things from him, but he never lost that spark and fighting spirit. He was the best brother a girl could ask for. He is leaving a legacy of love for Jesus in all seasons of life.
If you remember anything today, remember that life will bring adversity and things we cannot change. But on your worst day, remember Shannon, and no matter how bad it gets, take one more step and know you can go on.
All my love my preferred twin,
your favorite sister.
I met Mr. Larson when he came to our campus NELC. He was our new Head Start Principal. Oh my I can remember when I had car duty on morning and a parent was going off on me. Mr Larson came out there and told the lady, she will not talk disrespectful to his staff. I was called to his office later that day. My nerves was a wreck, I walked in there and said, “ What I did now Mr . Larson”. He told me that I handled the situation good. He told me if I ever need to talk his door was always open. From that day on, I was very comfortable talking with him. Mr Larson was a great person to work under. He greeted us with a smile even when he wasn’t feeling good. I’ll always remember our personal talks, that helped me through my tough time.
My prayer to The Larson Family ????????????
I did not work formally with Shannon, but we met serendipitously more than once while he was in our hospital. He was affable and a fellow music lover, and I will not forget him. May the beloved memory of Mr. Shannon Dean Larson be an everlasting blessing to all who knew him and his spirit a loving guide always. With Heartfelt Condolences, Chaplain/Cantor Michael Zoosman, NIH
If I could leave the legacy that Shannon has left with this world it would be a great honor. Growing up with him in the church there’s not very many memories I have that don’t involve him or his family. Thank you for your love Shannon. Thank you for your kindness. Until we meet again.. what a glorious day that will be! You ran your race well
If I could leave the legacy that Shannon has left with this world would be a great honor. Growing up with him in the church there’s not very many memories I have that don’t involve him or his family. Thank you for your love Shannon. Thank you for your kindness. Until we meet again.. what a glorious day that will be! You ran your race well
If I could leave the legacy that Shannon has left with this world would be a great honor. Growing up with him in the church there’s not very many memories I have that don’t involve him or his family. Thank you for your love Shannon. Thank you for your kindness. Until we meet again.. what a glorious day that will be!
If I could leave the legacy that Shannon has left with this world would be a great honor. Growing up with him in the church there’s not very many memories I have that don’t involve him or his family. Thank you for your love Shannon. Thank you for your kindness. Until we meet again.. what a glorious day that will be!
Jamie and family…thank you for sharing Shannon with us…his perseverance and faith will forever be an inspiration to me. Truly a pleasure and a delight to work with him at Vincent, Ozen and West Brook. Love you all and continued prayers. -Joy
I have known Shannon through Jamie for many years and I was always amazed at both of their bravery, spiritual faith, hope and determination during the very long up and down battle with Shannon’s brain tumor. Shannon left such an impression on all the many people that he encountered. What an amazing legacy! Jamie, you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time!
Sincerely
Mary Pat
I was fortunate to know Shannon during the years of work. I first meet him when he was counselor at Ozen High in early 2000’s. Then in 2009 I was working as counselor for Workforce Center and there’s Shannon at Vidor High School. He was a working as an assistant principal. Then a few years later he is at West Brook High School and we worked together again. He was such a kind, mild mannered man. My teaching and work experiences were with students with disabilities He was always there to speak out and represent them and their families. His compassion and care as an educator was above and beyond. In the last several years I would see him off and on at EducationFirstFCU. We always had a nice visit about our lives and his longhorns. I will miss his smile, encouragement, faith, and positive attitude. Until we meet again.
I worked for Mr. Larson at Westbook my first year of teaching. He was a great boss, compassionate and helpful. Don’t know if I would have made it without him. God bless him and his family
We met Shannon at the soccer field many years ago when our daughters played on the same team. He was a proud Dad and enthusiastic soccer fan who always wore a smile and was quick with encouraging words for all the players.
We will pray for his beautiful family as we remember the good times spent with this great man.
The first time I met Shannon was at our first workday of the school year at VHS, he was immediately friendly and easy to talk to. I grew up on a cattle ranch so naturally our conversation went straight to his longhorn herd.
I will never forget the first time he did an observation in my class (World History). He came in and sat down in a student desk among the students, not at the back or in a corner but smack-dab in the middle of the class! I was talking about the Roman Empire and within in seconds he was firing off one question after another and saying things like “cool” and “awesome” or “I never knew that, did ya’ll know that?” The students were even more engaged with his presence! That was supposed to be a 15 minute observation that turned into an hour (we were on block schedule then). The students loved it, I loved it and I felt like he really cared about what he was doing, he showed them anyone can learn at any point in their lives.
I have not seen him in years but my thoughts and prayers are with his family, he lived well and I know he will be missed and is so loved.
Rest in Peace Shannon.
I was blessed to talk and share stories and laughs with Shannon a few times via Jason and my sister Jenny but even though it was only a handful of times, I could see how much he was loved and that speaks volumes about a person. I send all my love and strength to everyone mourning the loss of Shannon and hope the happy and loving memories you’ve made with him provide you with some peace until you met with him again in heaven.
Our hearts are with you and your family Val! Lots of prayers headed your way. -Heather and Family
Shannon’s perseverance and HOPE were a true blessing and inspiration to our son, Drew. He counted Shannon as a great friend.
Our family is blessed to have been touched by this gentle soul with such a profound and enduring message for all.
What a legacy! What a wonderful, far-reaching legacy!
Losing a spouse is harder than I could have dreamed, but losing child must be intolerable. My prayer for all who loves Shannon is for God to give you the strength and faith you will need to accept God’s will ????????
Shannon and I got to know each other at Vincent M.S. when our classrooms were across from each other, around the time he was first diagnosed. His positive attitude and ever-present smile were endearing.
Even after he moved on, and we had not seen each other for at least a couple of years, he made the effort to attend my retirement party. That was a great surprise and greatly appreciated.
Although we didn’t have a lot of contact after that, we did see each other on occasion. But the last time we talked, about a year ago, he shared at length about his journey, obviously weary, concerned about Jamie and the kids, but still fighting and positive about life, always positive because he knew where his home was and had nothing to fear.
Shannon will be sorely missed by all of us who knew him. Jamie, I will be praying for comfort, strength for the days ahead, and the strength to get through each day, knowing he is no longer suffering. Much love to you and the children.
I was so deeply saddened to hear of Shannon passing. So many words describe this man; warrior, kind, compassionate, funny, humble and friend. I honestly never heard any negative word about him only good things. He was highly respected. He loved his family and his God and I know his legacy will live on. He impacted so many lives. My three children loved him. Thankful he was their Sunday school teacher. Our lives have been made richer for having know him. Our prayers are with you all. May God bless each of you and give you peace.
So sorry to hear about Mr. Larson passing away. He was a very kind man and always had a smile. He helped so many in the schools and outside schools. He loved music, watched many young men play and gave them encouragement. Rest in peace. May God give your family comfort during this difficult time.
You are a great man with such a great family. It has been an honor to be able to teach and coach 2 of your wonderful kids. You will be missed!!
Coach Erich Guidry
Shannon and I met through church at around 14 years old. I have very few church memories that don’t involve him. I’ve been so blessed to have been able to continue the friendship with not only him, but Jamie as well for all of these years. It’s been painful to watch Shannon’s struggles over the last few years, but I’ve always been awed by the grace and tenacity with which he faced his struggles and just kept on keeping on with his life. I am so sorry for the loss and will continue holding you all up in prayer in the days to come.
When I think of Shannon, the words that come to mind are Perseverance, Courage and Loyal Friend. Always a great friend to my family. Praying for Jamie and all the Larson family, to find Peace and Comfort in all their memories of Shannon.
Dad, I think there was a part of me that thought you would never die. Surely, Shannon Larson himself could not be taken down… yet cancer does not discriminate and brain cancer did not hold back… but neither did you. You’ve fought with your entire being for over 21 years. Something that most cannot begin to fathom. The mark you left on my life and others is immeasurable. I’ll forever hear your stories live on through the mouths of others, and while I wish I would hear them from you in a way only you could tell them, I’ll try to make peace with the fact that you are now in a place where disability and cancer does not exist, where your body does not fail you and your spirit roams free. You’ve left a burning hole in my heart. My world has been forever rocked by your absence, Dad. I’ll never feel the same without you. How could I? But, I will continue to walk- paso a paso, just as you told me. Each step contains a pain that even a thousand years with you would not have prepared me for. You’re my rock, my world, my friend, my advisor, my confidant, my songwriter, my warrior, my champion, my dad. I miss you. I will forever miss you. I’ll carry you with me wherever I go and for you I will continue to take steps. For you, I dedicate my profession and my mission to care for and influence others during the most challenging times of their lives. You passed away on the feast day of guardian angels and I know that I’ll forever have you as my own. God gave me a sign of that the morning I woke up without you.
Great, Great guy!!!! Rest in peace Mr. Larson
Jessie White
I have so many wonderful memories of Mr. Larson as my principal and was seriously blessed that he was in our lives! He’s one of those people that you can tell from the first moment you meet them they have the biggest heart and are one of most genuine people you will ever meet. Being a high schooler with cancer, Mr. Larson definitely helped make that experience easier on me! I have so many fond memories to share but I just can’t write them down yet without bawling. I’ll have to share them on Facebook at another time and tag his page. I hope to make it to his going home service Friday but my toddler (who I know would have loved to meet Mr. Larson) has been sick with strep since Sunday. It saddens me I may not get to be there to honor him but I know the service will be beautiful!
Such a lovely brave young man, husband, father, son, uncle and friend. So very sorry for the loss. Heaven has gained another angel.
Condolences to the family. Mr Larson was a friend and educational ambassador for kids. He will truly be missed.
All our love and prayers.
Mr Gene, Mrs Brenda, Valerie and Jason I am so sorry to hear about your loss. I know he is no longer in pain and will continue praying for you and your families
Where do I start when I think of my relationship with Shannon and his family. My fondest memories would be picking them up for church and youth choir when I lived in Nederland and they lived in Beauxart Gardens driving to Beaumont for church. I had a little Toyota Celica GT Sports car with a Moon roof. Shannon, Valerie and later Jason, when he got a little older, all loved for me to ride with the top open and them stick their heads through the roof. Of course we did not tell all these things to Momma Brenda and Daddy Gene because it was not really safe. But that was not even the clincher! They noticed me doing something with my hands and driving with my knee! That was amazing to them. I’m ashamed to admit but I did that so often alone in my car I actually had an indention on my knee from the steering wheel! SO THE CHALLENGE – Sis Dee, drive all the way to church without hands! Foolishly I did (BUT GOD HAD HIS HAND ON THE WHEEL NO DOUBT)! They loved it. I’m sorry for taking the risks but thankful we were safe and they loved the excitement. From then until now, I have watched Shannon develop into an intelligent, fun loving, helping others, loving family kind of guy. I am so thankful for our time and relationship that developed from kiddos ( that includes me – I for sure was no smart adult)! I have watched Shannon go forward jumping hurdles and mastering obstacles with much pride and humbleness. He never whined and complained and fought for 21 + years an aggressive brain tumor! Shannon you were so special to me! Thanks for allowing me to love you as a little boy and admire you as a young man! My prayers are for all of us that remain without Shannon – he is already greatly missed! May the peace and strength of God rest on Jamie, their children, parents and friends. ♥️????????????♥️
My Dearest Paco,
You made the world a better place. Your legacy will live on and be beneficial to all of the lives you touched along your journey. Heaven received a worthy servant today. We are blessed for the time we had with you and we will miss you always.
Brett a.k.a. your sister
Shannon was my nephew. Fifty years just wasn’t enough time to tell him how much I loved him. He touched so many lives, through being an Administrator at many schools, to his church family, and to his earthly family. His sweet mother, Brenda, and his father, Gene Jr, and his loving siblings, Valerie & Jason. His personality was a welcome mat to everyone who met him. He was positive & spiritual his whole life. He gave a sense of acceptance to everyone. He will be so very missed by all of us. The warrior in him wasn’t a match for the God he loved to keep him here. Heaven is graced with an Angel now.
I love you, Shannon.
— Aunt Karen